LncRNA OIP5-AS1 loss-induced microRNA-410 accumulation regulates cell proliferation and apoptosis by targeting KLF10 via activating PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway in multiple myeloma

Exosomal lncRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic targets in multiple myeloma

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is the second most common malignancy of the hematopoietic system, accounting for approximately 10% of all hematological malignancies, and currently, there is no complete cure. Existing research indicates that exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial regulatory role in the initiation and progression of tumors, involving various interactions such as lncRNA-miRNA, lncRNA-mRNA, and lncRNA-RNA binding proteins (RBP). Despite the significant clinical application potential of exosomal lncRNAs, research in this area still faces challenges due to their low abundance and technical limitations. To our knowledge, this review is the first to comprehensively integrate and elucidate the three mechanisms of action of exosomal lncRNAs in MM, and to propose potential therapeutic targets and clinical cases based on these mechanisms. We highlight the latest advancements in the potential of exosomal lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, offering not only a comprehensive analysis of the role of exosomal lncRNAs in MM but also new perspectives and methods for future clinical diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma.

Nanoparticles transfected with plasmid-encoded lncRNA-OIP5-AS1 inhibit renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice via the miR-410-3p/Nrf2 axis

Nanostructures composed of liposomes and polydopamine (PDA) have demonstrated efficacy as carriers for delivering plasmids, effectively alleviating renal cell carcinoma. However, their role in acute kidney injury (AKI) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the plasmid-encoded lncRNA-OIP5-AS1@PDA nanoparticles (POP-NPs) on renal ischemia/reperfusion (RI/R) injury and explore the underlying mechanisms. RI/R or OGD/R models were established in mice and HK-2 cells, respectively. In vivo, vector or POP-NPs were administered (10 nmol, IV) 48 h after RI/R treatment. In the RI/R mouse model, the OIP5-AS1 and Nrf2/HO-1 expressions were down-regulated, while miR-410-3p expression was upregulated. POP-NPs treatment effectively reversed RI/R-induced renal tissue injury, restoring altered levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, malondialdehyde, inflammatory factors (IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α), ROS, apoptosis, miR-410-3p, as well as the suppressed expression of SOD and Nrf2/HO-1 in the model mice. Similar results were obtained in cell models treated with POP-NPs. Additionally, miR-410-3p mimics could reverse the effects of POP-NPs on cellular models, partially counteracted by Nrf2 agonists. The binding relationship between OIP5-AS1 and miR-410-3p, alongside miR-410-3p and Nrf2, has been substantiated by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. The study revealed that POP-NPs can attenuate RI/R-induced injury through miR-410-3p/Nrf2 axis. These findings lay the groundwork for future targeted therapeutic approaches utilizing nanoparticles for RI/R-induced AKI.

Navigating the clinical landscape: Update on the diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma, a complex hematologic malignancy, has devastating consequences for patients, including dramatic bone loss, severe bone pain, and pathological fractures that markedly decrease the quality of life and impact the survival of affected patients. This necessitates a refined understanding of biomarkers for accurate diagnosis and prognosis of such severe malignancy. Therefore, this article comprehensively covers current research, elucidating the diverse spectrum of biomarkers employed in clinical settings. From traditional serum markers to advanced molecular profiling techniques, the review provides a thorough examination of their utility and limitations. Through this scoping review, emphasis is placed on the evolving landscape of personalized medicine, where biomarkers play a pivotal role in tailoring therapeutic strategies. The integration of genomic, proteomic, next generation sequencing and flow cytometric data further enriches the discussion, unravelling the molecular intricacies underlying disease progression. The updated criteria allow for the treatment of people who clearly would benefit from therapy and might live longer if treated before significant organ damage occurs. Navigating through the evolving diagnostic and prognostic paradigms in multiple myeloma, this article equips clinicians and researchers with crucial insights for optimizing patient care and advancing future therapeutic approaches.

Exploring the promise of regulator of G Protein Signaling 20: insights into potential mechanisms and prospects across solid cancers and hematological malignancies

RGS (Regulator of G protein signaling) proteins have long captured the fascination of researchers due to their intricate involvement across a wide array of signaling pathways within cellular systems. Their diverse and nuanced functions have positioned them as continual subjects of scientific inquiry, especially given the implications of certain family members in various cancer types. Of particular note in this context is RGS20, whose clinical relevance and molecular significance in hepatocellular carcinoma we have recently investigated. These investigations have prompted questions into the prevalence of pathogenic mutations within the RGS20 gene and the intricate network of interacting proteins that could contribute to the complex landscape of cancer biology. In our study, we aim to unravel the mutations within the RGS20 gene and the multifaceted interplay between RGS20 and other proteins within the context of cancer. Expanding on this line of inquiry, our research is dedicated to uncovering the intricate mechanisms of RGS20 in various cancers. In particular, we have redirected our attention to examining the role of RGS20 within hematological malignancies, with a specific focus on multiple myeloma and follicular lymphoma. These hematological cancers hold significant promise for further investigation, as understanding the involvement of RGS20 in their pathogenesis could unveil novel therapeutic strategies and treatment avenues. Furthermore, our exploration has extended to encompass the latest discoveries concerning the potential involvement of RGS20 in diseases affecting the central nervous system, thereby broadening the scope of its implications beyond oncology to encompass neurobiology and related fields.

MicroRNAs targeted mTOR as therapeutic agents to improve radiotherapy outcome

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that regulate genes and are involved in various biological processes, including cancer development. Researchers have been exploring the potential of miRNAs as therapeutic agents in cancer treatment. Specifically, targeting the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway with miRNAs has shown promise in improving the effectiveness of radiotherapy (RT), a common cancer treatment. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of miRNAs targeting mTOR as therapeutic agents to enhance RT outcomes in cancer patients. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific miRNAs that target mTOR and their impact on radiosensitivity for personalized cancer treatment approaches. The review also discusses the role of mTOR in cell homeostasis, cell proliferation, and immune response, as well as its association with oncogenesis. It highlights the different ways in which miRNAs can potentially affect the mTOR pathway and their implications in immune-related diseases. Preclinical findings suggest that combining mTOR modulators with RT can inhibit tumor growth through anti-angiogenic and anti-vascular effects, but further research and clinical trials are needed to validate the efficacy and safety of using miRNAs targeting mTOR as therapeutic agents in combination with RT. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential of miRNAs targeting mTOR to enhance RT efficacy in cancer treatment and emphasizes the need for further research to translate these findings into improved clinical outcomes.

The PI3K signaling pathway; from normal lymphopoiesis to lymphoid malignancies

INTRODUCTION

As a vital mechanism of survival, lymphopoiesis requires the collaboration of different signaling molecules to orchestrate each step of cell development and maturation. The PI3K pathway is considerably involved in the maturation of lymphatic cells and therefore, its dysregulation can immensely affect human well-being and cause some of the most prevalent malignancies. As a result, studies that investigate this pathway could pave the way for a better understanding of the lymphopoiesis mechanisms, the undesired changes that lead to cancer progression, and how to design drugs to solve this issue.

AREAS COVERED

The present review addresses the aforementioned aspects of the PI3K pathway and helps pave the way for future therapeutic approaches. In order to access the articles, databases such as Medicine Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct were utilized. The search formula was established by identifying main keywords including PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, Lymphopoiesis, Lymphoid malignancies, and inhibitors.

EXPERT OPINION

The PI3K pathway is crucial for lymphocyte development and differentiation, making it a potential target for therapeutic intervention in lymphoid cancers. Studies are focused on developing PI3K inhibitors to impede the progression of hematologic malignancies, highlighting the pathway's significance in lymphoma and lymphoid leukemia.

OIP5-AS1/miR-455-3p/microfibril-associated protein 2 axis exacerbates the progression of thyroid carcinoma

Background

The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Opa interacting protein 5-antisense RNA 1 (OIP5-AS1) has been shown to participate in numerous biological and pathological processes, notably including oncogenesis. OIP5-AS1 modulates oncogenic or anti-tumor activities by controlling various microRNAs (miRs) in diverse cancer types. This study sought to examine the potential role of the lncRNA OIP5-AS1-mediated miR-455-3p/microfibril-associated protein 2 (MFAP2) axis and its influence on the progression of thyroid carcinoma.

Methods

Cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were assessed through in vitro experimental measurements, which involved the use of Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK8), transwell, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining techniques. The estimate algorithm was employed to examine the relationship between MFAP2 and the Stromal score, Immune score, and ESTIMATE score.

Results

OIP5-AS1 expression was significantly more elevated in the thyroid carcinoma tissues and cell lines than the corresponding normal non-tumor tissues and cell lines. Following transfection with short-hairpin (sh)-OIP5-AS1, the CAL62 and SW1736 cells upregulated miR-455-3p and downregulated the MFAP2 expression levels. The downregulation of OIP5-AS1 expedited cellular apoptosis and hindered cellular proliferation and migration in the CAL62 and SW1736 cells. The in vitro experiments showed that both the suppression of MFAP2 and the increased expression of miR-455-3p exerted significant anti-cancer effects. In addition, the overexpression of MFAP2 counteracted the in vitro antineoplastic effects of the sh-OIP5-AS1 and miR-455-3p mimics.

Conclusions

The results suggest that lncRNA OIP5-AS1 plays a crucial role in the advancement of thyroid carcinoma by inhibiting miR-455-3p to activate MFAP2.

miR-410 Is a Key Regulator of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition with Biphasic Role in Prostate Cancer

The molecular basis of prostate cancer (PCa) progression from the primary disease to metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) followed by therapy-induced neuroendocrine prostate cancer is not fully understood. In this study, we elucidate the role of miR-410, a little-studied microRNA located on chromosome 14q32.31 within the DLK1-DIO3 cluster, in PCa. miR-410 expression analyses in primary and metastatic PCa tissues and cell lines show that its levels are decreased in initial stages and increased in advanced PCa. Functional studies were performed in a series of PCa cell lines. In LNCaP cells, miR-410 overexpression led to decreases in cellular viability, proliferation, invasiveness, and migration. On the other hand, miR-410 overexpression in PC3 and C42B cells led to increased viability, proliferation, and invasiveness. Our data suggest that miR-410 represses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in LNCaP cells by directly repressing SNAIL. However, it promotes EMT and upregulates PI3K/Akt signaling in PC3 and C42B cells. In vivo studies with PC3 xenografts support an oncogenic role of miR-410. These data suggest that miR-410 acts as a tumor suppressor in the initial stages of PCa and play an oncogenic role in advanced PCa. Our findings have important implications in understanding the molecular basis of PCa progression with potential translational implications.

Polystyrene microplastics with different sizes induce the apoptosis and necroptosis in liver through the PTEN/PI3K/AKT/autophagy axis

The production of plastics worldwide has been instrumental in the progress of modern society, while the increasing accumulation of plastics castoff in oceans, soils and anywhere else has become a major pressure source on environmental sustainability and animal health. Meanwhile, from a biological perspective, our understanding of the toxicological fingerprints of plastics, especially microplastics (MPs), is still poor. Here, we reported a phenomenon of hepatotoxicity dominated by MPs in the form of polystyrene (PS), was observed in mice model systems and cellular assays. Apoptosis and necroptosis related to the size of particles were seen upon PS-MPs introduction, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and quantitative analysis of signaling pathways in vivo and vitro. Collectively, the current study demonstrated that the levels of liver cell injury caused by PS-MPs were negatively correlated with the particle diameters. Small-sized particles (1-10 μm) induced cell death primarily as necroptosis whereas the large-sized particles (50-100 μm) mainly induced apoptosis, which was directly accomplished by PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling axis and its targeted autophagy flux. More interestingly, inhibition of autophagy not only alleviated PS-MPs-triggered cell death, but also changed the form of death injury to a certain extent. This uncovered crosstalk relationship opens up a new avenue for investigating the biological and toxicological effects of MPs, and may provide important insights for preventing and limiting of health hazards from MPs.

Dysregulation of Non-Coding RNAs: Roles of miRNAs and lncRNAs in the Pathogenesis of Multiple Myeloma

The dysregulation of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), specifically microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), leads to the development and advancement of multiple myeloma (MM). miRNAs, in particular, are paramount in post-transcriptional gene regulation, promoting mRNA degradation and translational inhibition. As a result, miRNAs can serve as oncogenes or tumor suppressors depending on the target genes. In MM, miRNA disruption could result in abnormal gene expression responsible for cell growth, apoptosis, and other biological processes pertinent to cancer development. The dysregulated miRNAs inhibit the activity of tumor suppressor genes, contributing to disease progression. Nonetheless, several miRNAs are downregulated in MM and have been identified as gene regulators implicated in extracellular matrix remodeling and cell adhesion. miRNA depletion potentially facilitates the tumor advancement and resistance of therapeutic drugs. Additionally, lncRNAs are key regulators of numerous cellular processes, such as gene expression, chromatin remodeling, protein trafficking, and recently linked MM development. The lncRNAs are uniquely expressed and influence gene expression that supports MM growth, in addition to facilitating cellular proliferation and viability via multiple molecular pathways. miRNA and lncRNA alterations potentially result in anomalous gene expression and interfere with the regular functioning of MM. Thus, this review aims to highlight the dysregulation of these ncRNAs, which engender novel therapeutic modalities for the treatment of MM.

Krüppel-like Factor 10 as a Prognostic and Predictive Biomarker of Radiotherapy in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

The prognosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains poor, with a 5-year survival rate of 12%. Although radiotherapy is effective for the locoregional control of PDAC, it does not have survival benefits compared with systemic chemotherapy. Most patients with localized PDAC develop distant metastasis shortly after diagnosis. Upfront chemotherapy has been suggested so that patients with localized PDAC with early distant metastasis do not have to undergo radical local therapy. Several potential tissue markers have been identified for selecting patients who may benefit from local radiotherapy, thereby prolonging their survival. This review summarizes these biomarkers including SMAD4, which is significantly associated with PDAC failure patterns and survival. In particular, Krüppel-like factor 10 (KLF10) is an early response transcription factor of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Unlike TGF-β in advanced cancers, KLF10 loss in two-thirds of patients with PDAC was associated with rapid distant metastasis and radioresistance; thus, KLF10 can serve as a predictive and therapeutic marker for PDAC. For patients with resectable PDAC, a combination of KLF10 and SMAD4 expression in tumor tissues may help select those who may benefit the most from additional radiotherapy. Future trials should consider upfront systemic therapy or include molecular biomarker-enriched patients without early distant metastasis.

LncRNAs and PTEN/PI3K signaling: A symphony of regulation in cancer biology

The Emergence of Long Non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as Key Regulators in Diverse Biological Processes: A Paradigm Shift in Understanding Gene Expression and its Impact on Cancer. The PTEN/PI3K pathway, a pivotal signaling cascade involved in cancer progression, orchestrates critical cellular functions such as survival, proliferation, and growth. In light of these advances, our investigation delves into the intricate and multifaceted interplay between lncRNAs and the PTEN/PI3K signaling pathway, unearthing previously undisclosed mechanisms that underpin cancer growth and advancement. These elusive lncRNAs exert their influence through direct targeting of the PTEN/PI3K pathway or by skillfully regulating the expression and activity of specific lncRNAs. This comprehensive review underscores the paramount significance of the interaction between lncRNAs and the PTEN/PI3K signaling pathway in cancer biology, unveiling an auspicious avenue for novel diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic interventions. In this review, we navigate through the functional roles of specific lncRNAs in modulating PTEN/PI3K expression and activity. Additionally, we scrutinize their consequential effects on downstream components of the PTEN/PI3K pathway, unraveling the intricacies of their mutual regulation. By advancing our understanding of this complex regulatory network, this study holds the potential to revolutionize the landscape of cancer research, paving the way for tailored and efficacious treatments to combat this devastating disease.

miRNAs driving diagnosis, progression, and drug resistance in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a tumor of transformed plasma cells. It's the second most common hematologic cancer after non-Hodgkin lymphoma. MM is a complex disease with many different risk factors, including ethnicity, race, and epigenetics. The microRNAs (miRNAs) are a critical epigenetic factor in multiple myeloma, influencing key aspects such as pathogenesis, prognosis, and resistance to treatment. They have the potential to assist in disease diagnosis and modulate the resistance behavior of MM towards therapeutic regimens. These characteristics could be attributed to the modulatory effects of miRNAs on some vital pathways such as NF-KB, PI3k/AKT, and P53. This review discusses the role of miRNAs in MM with a focus on their role in disease progression, diagnosis, and therapeutic resistance.

Decoding the role of miRNAs in multiple myeloma pathogenesis: A focus on signaling pathways

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer of plasma cells that has been extensively studied in recent years, with researchers increasingly focusing on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating gene expression in MM. Several non-coding RNAs have been demonstrated to regulate MM pathogenesis signaling pathways. These pathways might regulate MM development, apoptosis, progression, and therapeutic outcomes. They are Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, P53 and KRAS. This review highlights the impending role of miRNAs in MM signaling and their relationship with MM therapeutic interventions.

Clinical Significance of microRNAs in Hematologic Malignancies and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Hematologic malignancies are a group of neoplastic conditions that can develop from any stage of the hematopoiesis cascade. Small non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Mounting evidence highlights the role of miRNAs in malignant hematopoiesis via the regulation of oncogenes and tumor suppressors involved in proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. In this review, we provide current knowledge about dysregulated miRNA expression in the pathogenesis of hematological malignancies. We summarize data about the clinical utility of aberrant miRNA expression profiles in hematologic cancer patients and their associations with diagnosis, prognosis, and the monitoring of treatment response. Moreover, we will discuss the emerging role of miRNAs in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and severe post-HSCT complications, such as graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). The therapeutical potential of the miRNA-based approach in hemato-oncology will be outlined, including studies with specific antagomiRs, mimetics, and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Since hematologic malignancies represent a full spectrum of disorders with different treatment paradigms and prognoses, the potential use of miRNAs as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers might lead to improvements, resulting in a more accurate diagnosis and better patient outcomes.

Krüppel-like factor 10 (KLF10) as a critical signaling mediator: Versatile functions in physiological and pathophysiological processes

Krüppel-like factor 10 (KLF10), also known as TGFβ-inducible early gene-1 (TIEG1), was first found in human osteoblasts. Early studies show that KLF10 plays an important role in osteogenic differentiation. Through decades of research, KLF10 has been found to have complex functions in many different cell types, and its expression and function is regulated in multiple ways. As a downstream factor of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)/SMAD signaling, KLF10 is involved in various biological functions, including glucose and lipid metabolism in liver and adipose tissue, the maintenance of mitochondrial structure and function of the skeletal muscle, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and plays roles in multiple disease processes, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and tumor. Besides, KLF10 shows gender-dependent difference of regulation and function in many aspects. In this review, the biological functions of KLF10 and its roles in disease states is updated and discussed, which would provide new insights into the functional roles of KLF10 and a clearer view of potential therapeutic strategies by targeting KLF10.

miRNA-seq identification and clinical validation of CD138+ and circulating miR-25 in treatment response of multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND

Despite significant advancements in multiple myeloma (MM) therapy, the highly heterogenous treatment response hinders reliable prognosis and tailored therapeutics. Herein, we have studied the clinical utility of miRNAs in ameliorating patients' management.

METHODS

miRNA-seq was performed in bone marrow CD138+ plasma cells (PCs) of 24 MM and smoldering MM (sMM) patients to analyze miRNAs profile. CD138+ and circulating miR-25 levels were quantified using in house RT-qPCR assays in our screening MM/sMM cohort (CD138+ plasma cells n = 167; subcohort of MM peripheral plasma samples n = 69). Two external datasets (Kryukov et al. cohort n = 149; MMRF CoMMpass study n = 760) served as institutional-independent validation cohorts. Patients' mortality and disease progression were assessed as clinical endpoints. Internal validation was performed by bootstrap analysis. Clinical benefit was estimated by decision curve analysis.

RESULTS

miRNA-seq highlighted miR-25 of CD138+ plasma cells to be upregulated in MM vs. sMM, R-ISS II/III vs. R-ISS I, and in progressed compared to progression-free patients. The analysis of our screening cohort highlighted that CD138+ miR-25 levels were correlated with short-term progression (HR = 2.729; p = 0.009) and poor survival (HR = 4.581; p = 0.004) of the patients; which was confirmed by Kryukov et al. cohort (HR = 1.878; p = 0.005) and MMRF CoMMpass study (HR = 1.414; p = 0.039) validation cohorts. Moreover, multivariate miR-25-fitted models contributed to superior risk-stratification and clinical benefit in MM prognostication. Finally, elevated miR-25 circulating levels were correlated with poor survival of MM patients (HR = 5.435; p = 0.021), serving as a potent non-invasive molecular prognostic tool.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified miR-25 overexpression as a powerful independent predictor of poor treatment outcome and post-treatment progression, aiding towards modern non-invasive disease prognosis and personalized treatment decisions.

Aberrantly expressed long noncoding RNAs as potential prognostic biomarkers in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: A systemic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have manifested long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) as biomarkers to determine the prognosis of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Nevertheless, the prognostic role of lncRNAs in MM is still ambiguous. Herein, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the predictive value of aberrantly expressed lncRNAs in MM.

METHODS

A systemic literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases until October 9, 2021, and the protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42021284364). Our study extracted the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), or event-free survival (EFS). Begg's and Egger's tests were employed to correct publication bias.

RESULT

Twenty-six individual studies containing 3501 MM patients were enrolled in this study. The results showed that aberrant expression of lncRNAs was associated with poor OS and PFS of MM patients. The pooled HRs for univariate OS and PFS were 1.48 (95% CI = 1.17-1.88, p < 0.001) and 1.30 (95% CI = 1.18-1.43, p < 0.001), respectively, whereas the pooled HRs for multivariate OS and PFS were 1.50 (95% CI = 1.16-1.95, p < 0.001) and 1.59 (95% CI = 1.22-2.07, p < 0.001), respectively. Subgroup analysis suggested that MALAT1, TCF7, NEAT1, and PVT1 upregulation were associated with poor OS (p < 0.05), PVT1, and TCF7 upregulation were implicated with worse PFS (p < 0.05), while only TCF7 overexpression was correlated with reduced EFS (p < 0.05). Moreover, the contour-enhanced funnel plot demonstrated the reliability of our current conclusion, which was not affected by publication bias.

CONCLUSION

Aberrantly expressed particular lncRNAs are critical prognostic indicators in long-term survival as well as promising biomarkers in progression-free status. However, different cutoff values and dissimilar methods to assess lncRNA expression among studies may lead to heterogeneity.

FLVCR1-AS1 and FBXL19-AS1: Two Putative lncRNA Candidates in Multiple Human Cancers

(1) Background: Mounting evidence supports the idea that one of the most critical agents in controlling gene expression could be long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). Upregulation of lncRNA is observed in the different processes related to pathologies, such as tumor occurrence and development. Among the crescent number of lncRNAs discovered, FLVCR1-AS1 and FBXL19-AS1 have been identified as oncogenes in many cancer progression and prognosis types, including cholangiocarcinoma, gastric cancer, glioma and glioblastoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and osteosarcoma. Therefore, abnormal FBXL19-AS1 and FLVCR1-AS1 expression affect a variety of cellular activities, including metastasis, aggressiveness, and proliferation; (2) Methods: This study was searched via PubMed and Google Scholar databases until May 2022; (3) Results: FLVCR1-AS1 and FBXL19-AS1 participate in tumorigenesis and have an active role in impacting several signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, and EMT; (4) Conclusions: Our review focuses on the possible molecular mechanisms in a variety of cancers regulated by FLVCR1-AS1 and FBXL19-AS1. It is not surprising that there has been significant interest in the possibility that these lncRNAs might be used as biomarkers for diagnosis or as a target to improve a broader range of cancers in the future.

Krüppel-like factors family regulation of adipogenic markers genes in bovine cattle adipogenesis

Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a crucial determinant of meat quality traits in livestock. A network of transcription factors act in concert to regulate adipocyte formation and differentiation, which in turn influences intramuscular fat. Several genes and associated transcription factors have been reported to influence lipogenesis and adipogenesis during fetal and subsequent growth stage. Specifically in cattle, Krüppel-like factors (KLFs), which represents a family of transcription factors, have been reported to be involved in adipogenic differentiation and development. KLFs are a relatively large group of zinc-finger transcription factors that have a variety of functions in addition to adipogenesis. In mammals, the participation of KLFs in cell development and differentiation is well known. Specifically in the context of adipogenesis, KLFs function either as positive (KLF4, KLF5, KLF6, KLF8, KLF9, KLF10, KLF11, KLF12, KLF13, KLF14 and KLF15) or negative organizers (KLF2, KLF3 and KLF7), by a variety of different mechanisms such as crosstalk with C/EBP and PPARγ. In this review, we aim to summarize the potential functions of KLFs in regulating adipogenesis and associated pathways in cattle. Furthermore, the function of known bovine adipogenic marker genes, and associated transcription factors that regulate the expression of these marker genes is also summarized. Overall, this review will provide an overview of marker genes known to influence bovine adipogenesis and regulation of expression of these genes, to provide insights into leveraging these genes and transcription factors to enhance breeding programs, especially in the context of IMF deposition and meat quality.

Total Saponins of Radix Clematis Regulate Fibroblast-Like Synoviocyte Proliferation in Rheumatoid Arthritis via the LncRNA OIP5-AS1/MiR-410-3p/Wnt7b Signaling Pathway

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common autoimmune disease and affects multiple joints. Previous studies have shown that total saponins of Radix clematidis (TSC) have a clear therapeutic effect on RA, but the specific mechanism has not yet been clarified. Literature screening and previous research suggest that the lncRNA OIP5-AS1/miR-410-3p/Wnt7b signaling pathway exerts a regulatory effect on the pathogenesis of RA. In this study, we examined whether the TSC treatment of RA affects the lncRNA OIP5-AS1/miR-410-3p/Wnt7b pathway.

Materials and Methods

Freund's complete adjuvant was used to create an adjuvant arthritis (AA) rat model with rat synovial cells being harvested and cultured. The experiment comprises a normal group, model group, TSC optimal-dose group, TSC optimal-dose group + lncRNA OIP5-AS1siRNA group, lncRNA OIP5-AS1 siRNA group, and lncRNA OIP5-AS1 siRNA + NC group. MMT was used to screen the optimal concentration of TSC. The level of lncRNA OIP5-AS1, miR-410-3p, Wnt7b, β-catenin, c-Myc, cyclin D1, GSK-3β, and SFRP4 mRNA were detected by real-time-qPCR, the expression of Wnt7b, β-catenin, c-Myc, cyclin D1, GSK-3β, and p-GSK-3β (Ser9) protein were detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot.

Results

We found that TSC inhibits the proliferation of RA FLS, TSC significantly reduced lncRNA OIP5-AS1, Wnt7b, β-catenin, c-Myc, cyclin D1, and p-GSK-3β/GSK-3β mRNA/protein expression, whereas the miR-410-3p and SFRP4 mRNA/protein expression levels were significantly upregulated. Our data suggest that TSC can inhibit the excessive proliferation of FLS to treat RA, the mechanism of which may be closely related to regulation of the lncRNA OIP5-AS1/miR-410-3p /Wnt7b signaling axis and the Wnt signaling pathway.

The Multiple Myeloma Landscape: Epigenetics and Non-Coding RNAs

Simple Summary

Recent findings in multiple myeloma have led to therapies which have improved patient life quality and expectancy. However, frequent relapse and drug resistance emphasize the need for more efficient therapeutic approaches. The discovery of non-coding RNAs as key actors in multiple myeloma has broadened the molecular landscape of this disease, together with classical epigenetic factors such as methylation and acetylation. microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs comprise the majority of the described non-coding RNAs dysregulated in multiple myeloma, while circular RNAs are recently emerging as promising molecular targets. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the most recent knowledge on this topic and suggests new therapeutic strategies.

Abstract

Despite advances in available treatments, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease and represents a challenge in oncohematology. New insights into epigenetic factors contributing to MM development and progression have improved the knowledge surrounding its molecular basis. Beyond classical epigenetic factors, including methylation and acetylation, recent genome analyses have unveiled the importance of non-coding RNAs in MM pathogenesis. Non-coding RNAs have become of interest, as their dysregulation opens the door to new therapeutic approaches. The discovery, in the past years, of molecular techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas, has led to innovative therapies with potential benefits to achieve a better outcome for MM patients. This review summarizes the current knowledge on epigenetics and non-coding RNAs in MM pathogenesis.

Long non-coding RNA Opa interacting protein 5-antisense RNA 1 binds to micorRNA-34a to upregulate oncogenic PD-L1 in non-small cell lung cancer

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) OPA-interacting protein 5 antisense transcript 1 (OIP5-AS1) plays an oncogenic role in several types of cancer, but whether it is involved in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unclear. Our preliminary sequencing analysis revealed the upregulation of OIP5-AS1 in NSCLC. In this study, gene expression levels were analyzed by RT-qPCR. RNA-RNA pull-down assay was applied to detect direct interactions between RNAs. Overexpression assays were performed to explore the relationship between miR-34a and OIP5-AS1. CCK-8 assay and colony formation assay were applied to evaluate cell proliferation. In NSCLC cells (H23), overexpression of OIP5-AS1 increased the expression levels of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). In addition, inhibition of OIP5-AS1 and overexpression of miR-34a decreased the expression levels of PD-L1, and miR-34a significantly blocked the role of overexpression of OIP5-AS1. Overexpression of OIP5-AS1 and PD-L1 promoted H23 and H22 cells proliferation, while silencing of miR-34a and OIP5-AS1 played opposite roles and eliminated the effects of overexpression of OIP5-AS1 on cell proliferation. Therefore, OIP5-AS1 was upregulated to enhance the expression of oncogenic PD-L1 by sponging miR-34a in NSCLC, leading to promoted NSCLC cell proliferation. Our study also demonstrated that OIP5-AS1 was upregulated while miR-34a was downregulated in NSCLC.

KLF10 upregulates ACSM3 via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to inhibit the malignant progression of melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer caused by mutations in the DNA of melanocytes. Melanoma is relatively rare compared with other types of skin tumors, but has a highly aggressive biological behavior and consequently, a poorer prognosis. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of Kruppel-like factor 10 (KLF10) and acyl-CoA medium-chain synthetase 3 (ACSM3) in melanoma progression. KLF10 expression in melanoma tissues was predicted using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA). KLF10 expression in healthy and melanoma cells was also detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting. Cell transfection was performed to overexpress KLF10 or silence ACSM3. Cell viability, proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis were detected using Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, wound healing, Transwell and TUNEL assays, respectively. The activity of the ACSM3 promoter was detected using a dual-luciferase reporter assay, and the relationship between KLF10 and ACSM3 was detected using the GEPIA database and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). The results demonstrated that KLF10 expression was significantly downregulated in melanoma cells, especially in A375 cells. Compared with the Ov-NC group, KLF10 overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of melanoma cells and promoted their apoptosis. Similar to KLF10, ACSM3 was also downregulated in A375 cells compared with that in the HEM group, and the GEPIA database analysis and ChIP assay results demonstrated that KLF10 expression was positively associated with ACSM3 expression. Furthermore, silencing ACSM3 significantly reversed the effect of KLF10 overexpression on cell proliferation, invasion and migration, and ACSM3 knockdown increased the levels of phosphorylated (p)-PI3K and p-Akt compared with the levels in the Ov-KLF10 + sh-NC group. Overall, the present study suggested that KLF10 inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of melanoma cells by targeting ACSM3 via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

The Emerging role of EMT-related lncRNAs in therapy resistance and their application as biomarkers

Cancer is the world's second largest cause of death. The most common cancer treatments are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Drug resistance, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and metastasis are all pressing issues in cancer therapy today. Increasing evidence showed that drug-resistant and EMT are co-related with each other. Indeed, drug-resistant cancer cells possess enhanced EMT and invasive ability. Recent researches have demonstrated lncRNAs (long noncoding RNAs) are noncoding transcripts, which play an important role in the regulation of EMT, metastasis, and drug resistance in different cancers. However, the relationships among lncRNAs, EMT, and drug resistance are still unclear. These effects could be exerted via several signaling pathways such as TGF-β, PI3K-AKT, and Wnt/β-catenin. Identifying the crucial regulatory roles of lncRNAs in these pathways and processes leads to the development of novel targeted therapies. We review the key aspects of lncRNAs associated with EMT and therapy resistance. We focus on the crosstalk between lncRNAs and molecular signaling pathways affecting EMT and drug resistance. Moreover, each of the mentioned lncRNAs could be used as a potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarker for cancer. Although, there are still many challenges to investigate lncRNAs for clinical applications.

The role of lncRNA OIP5-AS1 in cancer development and progression

OIP5-AS1, a conserved lncRNA, has been reported to be involved in several biological and pathological processes, including oncogenesis. OIP5-AS1 exerts its oncogenic or antitumor functions via regulation of different miRNAs in various cancer types. In this review, we describe the dysregulation of OIP5-AS1 expression in a variety of human cancers. Moreover, we discuss the multiple functions of OIP5-AS1 in cancer, including in proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, cell cycle, migration, metastasis, invasion, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, cancer stem cells and drug resistance. Furthermore, we provide a future perspective for OIP5-AS1 research. We conclude that targeting OIP5-AS1 might be a promising cancer therapy approach.

OPA Interacting Protein 5 Antisense RNA 1 Expedites Cell Migration and Invasion Through FOXM1/ Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Pancreatic Cancer

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a digestive tract malignancy with poor prognosis. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) OPA interacting protein 5 antisense RNA 1 (OIP5-AS1) was regarded to be correlated with human malignancy, working as tumor suppressor or promoter on the basis of tumor types. However, the function of OIP5-AS1 in PC remained unclear.

AIMS

The study focused on the function and regulatory mechanism of OIP5-AS1 in PC.

METHODS

OIP5-AS1 expression was assessed by the quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) in tumor tissues and PC cell lines. 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation and cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were applied to detect cell proliferation ability. Through wound healing and transwell assays, cell migration and invasion capacities were estimated. Flow cytometry analysis was performed to examine apoptosis capability of PC cells.

RESULTS

OIP5-AS1 downregulating inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities, while promoting cell apoptosis rates. As a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), OIP5-AS1 competed with Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) for the binding sites on microRNA-320b (miR-320b). OIP5-AS1 was able to upregulate FOXM1 expression via silencing miR-320b. Furthermore, FOXM1 served as an activator of Wnt/β-catenin pathway and mediated the effect of OIP5-AS1 on Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

CONCLUSION

OIP5-AS1 expedites the proliferative, migrated, and invasive capability of PC cells, while repressing cell apoptosis through regulating miRNA-320b/FOXM1 axis and FOXM1/Wnt/β-catenin pathway in PC. OIP5-AS1 regulation on FOXM1/Wnt/β-catenin pathway may offer novel efficient markers for PC treatments.

Roles of LINC01473 and CD74 in osteoblasts in multiple myeloma bone disease

The suppression of osteoblast (OB) activity is partially responsible for multiple myeloma (MM) bone disease. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a vital role in bone formation and resorption. However, their functions in OBs from patients with MM have rarely been reported. Through high-throughput sequencing of OBs from patients with MM and healthy controls, we identified several lncRNAs and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) with different expression profile and validated them using quantitative real-time PCR. In total, 22 upregulated and 21 downregulated lncRNAs were found in OBs from patients with MM. Moreover, 18 upregulated protein-coding mRNAs were identified. The expression levels of LINC01473 and its associated co-expression mRNA, CD74, were higher in patients with MM than in healthy controls (p=0.047 and p=0.016, respectively). LINC01473 expression demonstrated a negative correlation with serum interleukin-2 and tumor necrosis factor α levels, whereas the expression of mRNA CD74 was positively associated with serum lactic dehydrogenase in patients with MM. Aberrant expression of lncRNAs and mRNAs was observed in OBs from patients with MM. This study identifies new promising targets for further research on imbalanced bone formation and resorption and MM immune escape.

The various regulatory functions of long noncoding RNAs in apoptosis, cell cycle, and cellular senescence

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of noncoding cellular RNAs involved in significant biological phenomena such as differentiation, cell development, genomic imprinting, adjusting the enzymatic activity, regulating chromosome conformation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and cellular senescence. The misregulation of lncRNAs interrupting normal biological processes has been implicated in tumor formation and metastasis, resulting in cancer. Apoptosis and cell cycle, two main biological phenomena, are highly conserved and intimately coupled mechanisms. Hence, some cell cycle regulators can influence both programmed cell death and cell division. Apoptosis eliminates defective and unwanted cells, and the cell cycle enables cells to replicate themselves. The improper regulation of apoptosis and cell cycle contributes to numerous disorders such as neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases, viral infection, anemia, and mainly cancer. Cellular senescence is a tumor-suppressing response initiated by environmental and internal stress factors. This phenomenon has recently attained more attention due to its therapeutic implications in the field of senotherapy. In this review, the regulatory roles of lncRNAs on apoptosis, cell cycle, and senescence will be discussed. First, the role of lncRNAs in mitochondrial dynamics and apoptosis is addressed. Next, the interaction between lncRNAs and caspases, pro/antiapoptotic proteins, and also EGFR/PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTORC1 signaling pathway will be investigated. Furthermore, the effect of lncRNAs in the cell cycle is surveyed through interaction with cyclins, cdks, p21, and wnt/β-catenin/c-myc pathway. Finally, the function of essential lncRNAs in cellular senescence is mentioned.

Knockdown of lncRNA BDNF-AS inhibited the progression of multiple myeloma by targeting the miR-125a/b-5p-BCL2 axis

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) BDNF-AS in the progression of multiple myeloma (MM).

Methods

The expression of BDNF-AS, miR-125a-5p, and miR-125b-5p in MM serum and cell lines were detected by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). The binding relationships between miR-125a/b-5p and BDNF-AS or Bcl-2 were predicted by Starbase and verified by luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. Cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining assay. Cell migration was evaluated by wound healing assay. The expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins were evaluated by Western blot analysis. The role of BDNF-AS was also investigated in a xenograft tumor model in vivo.

Results

BDNF-AS was significantly upregulated, while miR-125a-5p and miR-125b-5p were downregulated in MM serum and corresponding cancer cell lines. Knockdown of BDNF-AS effectively inhibited the proliferation and migration of MM.1S and U266 cells, and co-transfection of miR-125a-5p or miR-125b-5p inhibitor and sh-BDNF-AS enhanced cell proliferation and migration compared with that in sh-BDNF-AS group. Knockdown of miR-125a-5p or miR-125b-5p significantly enhanced the proliferation and migration of MM.1S and U266 cells, and co-transfection of sh-Bcl-2 and miR-125a/b-5p inhibitor inhibited cell proliferation compared with that in miR-125a/b-5p inhibitor group. Moreover, knockdown of BDNF-AS increased the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins (cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved PARP), while knockdown of miR-125a-5p or miR-125b-5p reduced the expression levels of these apoptosis-related proteins compared with knockdown of BDNF-AS. Furthermore, knockdown of BDNF-AS effectively suppressed MM tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that knockdown of BDNF-AS inhibited the progression of MM by targeting the miR-125a/b-5p-Bcl-2 axis, indicating that BDNF-AS might serve as a novel drug target for MM.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12979-021-00258-5.

miRNA-seq and clinical evaluation in multiple myeloma: miR-181a overexpression predicts short-term disease progression and poor post-treatment outcome

BACKGROUND

Despite significant advances in multiple myeloma (MM) therapy, disease relapse and treatment resistance remain major obstacles in clinical management. Herein, we have studied the clinical utility of miRNAs in improving patients' risk-stratification and prognosis.

METHODS

miRNA-seq was performed in CD138+ plasma cells of MM, smoldering multiple myeloma (sMM) and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) patients. The screening MM cohort consisted of 138 patients. miRNA levels of CD138+ plasma cells were quantified by RT-qPCR following 3'-end RNA polyadenylation. Disease progression and patients' death were used as clinical end-point events. Internal validation was conducted by bootstrap analysis. Clinical net benefit on disease prognosis was assessed by decision curve analysis. Kruykov et al. 2016 served as validation cohort (n = 151).

RESULTS

miRNA-seq highlighted miR-181a to be upregulated in MM vs. sMM/MGUS, and R-ISS III vs. I patients. Screening and validation cohorts confirmed the significantly higher risk for short-term progression and worse survival of the patients overexpressing miR-181a. Multivariate models integrating miR-181a with disease established markers led to superior risk-stratification and clinical benefit for MM prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

CD138+ overexpression of miR-181a was strongly correlated with inferior disease outcome and contributed to superior prediction of MM patients early progression, supporting personalised prognosis and treatment decisions.

Long non-coding RNA OIP5-AS1 (Cyrano): A context-specific regulator of normal and disease processes

Long non-coding (lnc) RNAs have been implicated in a plethora of normal biological functions, and have also emerged as key molecules in various disease processes. OIP5-AS1, also commonly known by the alias Cyrano, is a lncRNA that displays broad expression across multiple tissues, with significant enrichment in particular contexts including within the nervous system and skeletal muscle. Thus far, this multifaceted lncRNA has been found to have regulatory functions in normal cellular processes including cell proliferation and survival, as well as in the development and progression of a myriad disease states. These widespread effects on normal and disease states have been found to be mediated through context-specific intermolecular interactions with dozens of miRNAs and proteins identified to date. This review explores recent studies to highlight OIP5-AS1's contextual yet pleiotropic roles in normal homeostatic functions as well as disease oetiology and progression, which may influence its utility in the generation of future theranostics.

Roles of miRNA dysregulation in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant disease of plasma cells with complex pathology, causing significant morbidity due to its end-organ destruction. The outcomes of patients with myeloma have significantly improved in the past couple of decades with the introduction of novel agents, such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators, and monoclonal antibodies. However, MM remains incurable and presents considerable individual heterogeneity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous noncoding RNAs of 19-22 nucleotides that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. Numerous studies have shown that miRNA deregulation is closely related to MM pathology, including tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, prognosis, and drug response, which make the complicated miRNA network an attractive and marvelous area of investigation for novel anti-MM therapeutic approaches. Herein, we mainly summarized the current knowledge on the roles of miRNAs, which are of great significance in regulating pathological factors involved in MM progressions, such as bone marrow microenvironment, methylation, immune regulation, genomic instability, and drug resistance. Meanwhile, their potential as novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets was also discussed.

LncRNA OIP5-AS1 Promotes the Autophagy-Related Imatinib Resistance in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells by Regulating miR-30e-5p/ATG12 Axis

Background: Resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) remains a problem in clinical treatment, and the mechanism has not been fully clarified. Autophagy can protect cancer cells under chemotherapeutic stimulation. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical in drug resistance of CML. The role of lncRNAs in autophagy and drug resistance of CML needs to be further explored. Methods: Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate the autophagy activity in the drug-resistant CML cell line K562/G01 and its parental cell line K562. Then the sensitivity of K562/G01 cells to the first generation TKI imatinib (IM) after autophagy inhibition was determined by CCK-8 assays. The lncRNA OIP5-AS1 related to the drug resistance of CML cells was determined by Gene Expression Omnibus database analysis. Western blot and drug-sensitivity assays were used to detect changes in autophagy and sensitivity to the IM in resistant CML cells after OIP5-AS1 knockdown. The interactions of OIP5-AS1, miR-30e-5p, and ATG12 were explored by RNA immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Results: In this study, we found that autophagy was associated with drug resistance in CML cells. Moreover, the upregulation of OIP5-AS1 in K562/G01 cells was related to the enhancement of autophagy. Knockdown of OIP5-AS1 suppressed autophagy and enhanced the sensitivity of K562/G01 cells to IM. Furthermore, OIP5-AS1 regulated ATG12 by competitively binding miR-30e-5p, thereby affecting autophagy-related drug resistance. Conclusion: Our study reveals that OIP5-AS1 promotes the autophagy-related IM resistance in CML cells by regulating miR-30e-5p/ATG12 axis, providing new insights into the drug resistance mechanism of CML.

Positive feedback between lncRNA FLVCR1-AS1 and KLF10 may inhibit pancreatic cancer progression via the PTEN/AKT pathway

BACKGROUND

FLVCR1-AS1 is a key regulator of cancer progression. However, the biological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cancer (PC) remain unknown.

METHODS

FLVCR1-AS1 expression levels in 77 PC tissues and matched non-tumor tissues were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Moreover, the role of FLVCR1-AS1 in PC cell proliferation, cell cycle, and migration was verified via functional in vitro and in vivo experiments. Further, the potential competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network between FLVCR1-AS1 and KLF10, as well as FLVCR1-AS1 transcription levels, were investigated.

RESULTS

FLVCR1-AS1 expression was low in both PC tissues and PC cell lines, and FLVCR1-AS1 downregulation was associated with a worse prognosis in patients with PC. Functional experiments demonstrated that FLVCR1-AS1 overexpression significantly suppressed PC cell proliferation, cell cycle, and migration both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic investigations revealed that FLVCR1-AS1 acts as a ceRNA to sequester miR-513c-5p or miR-514b-5p from the sponging KLF10 mRNA, thereby relieving their suppressive effects on KLF10 expression. Additionally, FLVCR1-AS1 was shown to be a direct transcriptional target of KLF10.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research suggests that FLVCR1-AS1 plays a tumor-suppressive role in PC by inhibiting proliferation, cell cycle, and migration through a positive feedback loop with KLF10, thereby providing a novel therapeutic strategy for PC treatment.

Long non-coding RNAs as the critical regulators of doxorubicin resistance in tumor cells

Resistance against conventional chemotherapeutic agents is one of the main reasons for tumor relapse and poor clinical outcomes in cancer patients. Various mechanisms are associated with drug resistance, including drug efflux, cell cycle, DNA repair and apoptosis. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used first-line anti-cancer drug that functions as a DNA topoisomerase II inhibitor. However, DOX resistance has emerged as a large hurdle in efficient tumor therapy. Furthermore, despite its wide clinical application, DOX is a double-edged sword: it can damage normal tissues and affect the quality of patients’ lives during and after treatment. It is essential to clarify the molecular basis of DOX resistance to support the development of novel therapeutic modalities with fewer and/or lower-impact side effects in cancer patients. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have critical roles in the drug resistance of various tumors. In this review, we summarize the state of knowledge on all the lncRNAs associated with DOX resistance. The majority are involved in promoting DOX resistance. This review paves the way to introducing an lncRNA panel marker for the prediction of the DOX response and clinical outcomes for cancer patients.

LncRNA OIP5-AS1 knockdown or miR-223 overexpression can alleviate LPS-induced ALI/ARDS by interfering with miR-223/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are life-threatening diseases and endothelial barrier injury is an important contributor to the pathogenesis of ALI/ARDS. LncRNA has been proved to participate in the progression of ALI/ARDS. Our study aimed to investigate the function of lncRNA OIP5-AS1 in LPS-induced ALI/ARDS.

METHODS

OIP5-AS1 and miR-223 levels were detected by PCR in the serum of ALI/ARDS patients or healthy donors. MTT assay were performed to detect the proliferation of HPMECs. Flow cytometry were performed to detect the apoptosis of HPMECs. The protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD-N, caspase-1 were measured by western blot to detect the pyroptosis of HPMECs. IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18 and IL-10 was detected by ELISA to measure the inflammatory response of HPMECs. And production of ROS, SOD and MDA was measured to determine the oxidative stress of HPMECs. Targets of OIP5-AS1 and miR-223 were predicted by StarBase and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

We found that OIP5-AS1 was upregulated, while miR-223 was downregulated in the serum of ALI/ARDS patients and LPS-treated HPMECs. Functionally, knockdown of OIP5-AS1 induced proliferation and inhibited apoptosis, pyroptosis, inflammatory response and oxidative stress of LPS-treated HPMECs. Interestingly, miR-223 was a target of OIP5-AS1 and miR-223 inhibition abolished the effects of si-OIP5-AS1 on LPS-induced HPMECs. More importantly, miR-223 directly targeted NLRP3, miR-223 overexpression also promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis, pyroptosis, inflammatory response and oxidative stress of LPS-treated HPMECs and which was abolished by NLRP3 overexpression. Finally, we found that OIP5-AS1 knockdown and miR-223 overexpression could both alleviate LPS-induced ALI/ARDS in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Together, we find that LncRNA OIP5-AS1 aggravates LPS-induced ALI/ARDS via miR-223/NLRP3 axis and provides new targets for ALI/ARDS therapy.

Next-Generation Biomarkers in Multiple Myeloma: Understanding the Molecular Basis for Potential Use in Diagnosis and Prognosis

Multiple myeloma (MM) is considered to be the second most common blood malignancy and it is characterized by abnormal proliferation and an accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. Although the currently utilized markers in the diagnosis and assessment of MM are showing promising results, the incidence and mortality rate of the disease are still high. Therefore, exploring and developing better diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers have drawn global interest. In the present review, we highlight some of the recently reported and investigated novel biomarkers that have great potentials as diagnostic and/or prognostic tools in MM. These biomarkers include angiogenic markers, miRNAs as well as proteomic and immunological biomarkers. Moreover, we present some of the advanced methodologies that could be utilized in the early and competent diagnosis of MM. The present review also focuses on understanding the molecular concepts and pathways involved in these biomarkers in order to validate and efficiently utilize them. The present review may also help in identifying areas of improvement for better diagnosis and superior outcomes of MM.

The pseudogene PRELID1P6 promotes glioma progression via the hnHNPH1-Akt/mTOR axis

Research over the past decade has suggested important roles for pseudogenes in glioma. This study aimed to show that pseudogene PRELI domain-containing 1 pseudogene 6 (PRELID1P6) promotes glioma progression. Aberrant expression of genes was screened using The Cancer Genome Atlas database. We found that mRNA level of PRELID1P6 was highly upregulated in glioma and was associated with a shorter survival time. Functional studies showed that the knockdown of PRELID1P6 decreased cell proliferation, sphere formation, and clone formation ability and blocked the cell cycle transition at G0/G1, while overexpression of PRELID1P6 had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, knockdown of PRELID1P6 changed the cellular localization of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein H1 (hnRNPH1) from nucleus to cytoplasm, which promoted ubiquitin-mediated degradation of hnRNPH1. RNA-sequence and gene set enrichment analysis suggested that knockdown of PRELID1P6 regulates the apoptosis signaling pathway. Western blotting showed that PRELID1P6 increased TRF2 expression by hnRNPH1-mediated alternative splicing effect and activated the Akt/mTOR pathway. Furthermore, Akt inhibitor MK2206 treatment reversed the oncogenic function of PRELID1P6. PRELID1P6 was also found to be negatively regulated by miR-1825. Our result showed that PRELID1P6 promotes glioma progression through the hnHNPH1-Akt/mTOR pathway. These findings shed new light on the important role of PRELID1P6 as a novel oncogene for glioma.

The Effect and Mechanism of LINC00663 on the Biological Behavior of Glioma

Glioma is the most frequent primary malignant brain tumor, which is characterized by high incidence and mortality, with a poor prognosis. Numerous studies have revealed the abnormal expression of long non-coding RNAs in gliomas. This study explored the effects and potential mechanism of LINC00663 in glioma. The LINC00663 levels and their prognostic values were analyzed from the GEO databases using bioinformatics. Also, LINC00663 expression in tissue samples and cell lines was measured using qRT-PCR. The roles of LINC00663 in glioma were confirmed using CCK8, EdU assay as well as Transwell tests. Moreover, the influences of LINC00663 on the AKT/mTOR signal cascades were detected using western blotting assay. LINC00663 expression was higher in both glioma tissues and cell lines than that in the normal brain tissues and human astrocytes. High expression of LINC00663 led to the low overall survival rate of patients with glioma. LINC00663 knockdown notably restrained cell proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities by decreasing the activation of AKT and mTOR. This study indicated that LINC00663 might have a cancer-promoting role in accelerating glioma development and progression through regulating AKT/mTOR pathway.

Up-regulated long noncoding RNA AC007128.1 and its genetic polymorphisms associated with Tuberculosis susceptibility

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health problem. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important regulators of gene expression. In this study, we explored the association between the expression of lncRNA AC007128.1 and TB susceptibility.

Methods

Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs12333784, rs6463794, and rs720964) of lncRNA AC007128.1 were selected using the 1000 Genomes Project database and offline software Haploview V4.2, and were genotyped by a customized 2×48-Plex SNPscan™ Kit.

Results

We identified two differentially expressed lncRNA including AC007128.1 and AP001065.3 in comparisons of expression profiles between ATB vs. LTBI, LTBI vs. HCs, and AC700128.1 expression was specifically and significantly up-regulated in TB patients by verification of external data. Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis and co-expression network showed up-regulated mRNA was mainly involved in negative regulation of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathway, and FPR1 and CYP27B1 were involved in the co-expression of AC007128.1. Using the 1000 Genomes Project, software Haploview V4.2, and SNP genotype, we screened out SNP rs12333784 which locus at 7p21.3 in AC007128.1 associated with TB susceptibility. The G carrier of rs12333784 was then finally verified to be significantly associated with pulmonary TB (PTB) and extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) susceptibility (pBonferroni =0.03878), and a similar but more significant effect was observed under the dominant model analysis (pBonferroni =0.013, OR =1.349, 95% CI, 1.065–1.709). In addition, the GG + GA genotype of SNP rs12333784 was significantly correlated with higher glucose (GLU) (P=0.03), higher gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (P=0.05), and higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (P=0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings show lncRNA AC007128.1 can be regarded as biomarkers discriminating between ATB and LTBI and may also be a diagnostic biomarker for LBTI. These findings may aid clinical decision making in the management of TB.

Early-life stress induces genome-wide sex-dependent miRNA expression and correlation across limbic brain areas in rats

Aims:

The aim of this study was to assess regional- and sex-dependent changes in miRNA expression resulting from early-life stress (ELS).

Materials and methods:

Small RNA sequencing was used to determine sex-dependent changes in miRNAs after maternal separation, a rodent model of ELS, across the prefrontal cortex, amygdala and hippocampus.

Results:

Maternal separation induced anhedonia and altered miRNA expression in a sex-dependent manner, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Gene ontology revealed that these miRNAs target genes with brain-specific biological functions.

Conclusion:

Using a network approach to explore miRNA signaling across the brain after ELS, regional differences were highlighted as key to studying the brain’s stress response, which indicates that sex is critical for understanding miRNA-mediated ELS-induced behavior.

Krüppel like factor 10 prevents intervertebral disc degeneration via TGF-β signaling pathway both in vitro and in vivo

Background

Krüppel like factor 10 (KLF10), which is also known as TGF-β Inducible Early Gene-1 (TIEG1), plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation, cell apoptosis and inflammatory reaction in human carcinoma cells. Moreover, KLF10 knockout in mice leads to severe defects associated with muscle, skeleton and heart etc. However, the function of KLF10 in intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) has not been reported yet.

Methods

The relationship between KLF10 and IVDD were investigated in nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues from human and rats. The role of KLF10 in NP cells was explored via loss or gain of function experiments. IVDD rat models were constructed through needle puncture and the effects of KLF10 in IVDD model of rats were investigated via intradiscal injection of KLF10.

Results

We first found that KLF10 was lowly expressed in degenerative NP tissues and the level of KLF10 showed negative correlation with the disc grades of IVDD patients. Loss or gain of function experiments demonstrated that KLF10 could inhibit apoptosis and enhance migration and proliferation of IL-1β induced NP cells. And KLF10 overexpression reduced extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration and enhanced ECM synthesis, whereas knockdown of KLF10 resulted in adverse effects. These positive effects of KLF10 could be reversed by the inhibition of TGF-β signaling pathway. In vivo, KLF10 overexpression alleviated IVDD.

Conclusions

This is the first study to reveal that KLF10 was dysregulated in IVDD and overexpressed KLF10 could alleviate IVDD by regulating TGF-β signaling pathway both in vitro and in vivo, which were involved in prohibiting apoptosis, promoting proliferation and migration of NP cells.The translational potential of this article: Overexpression of KLF10 might be an effective therapeutic strategy in the treatment of IVDD.

Long non-coding RNA ANRIL and its target microRNAs (microRNA-34a, microRNA-125a and microRNA-186) relate to risk stratification and prognosis in multiple myeloma

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the correlations of long non-coding RNA ANRIL (lncRNA ANRIL), microRNA (miR)-34a, miR-125a and miR-186 with disease risk, clinical features and prognosis of multiple myeloma (MM).

METHOD

Totally, 87 MM patients and 30 controls were recruited. LncRNA ANRIL and its target miRNAs (miR-34a, miR-125a and miR-186) in bone marrow derived plasma cells were detected by RT-qPCR. Treatment response was assessed and survivals were calculated in MM patients.

RESULTS

LncRNA ANRIL expression was increased, while miR-34a, miR-125a and miR-186 expressions were reduced in MM patients compared with controls. Meanwhile, lncRNA ANRIL negatively correlated with miR-34a and miR-125a but not miR-186 in MM patients, while did not correlate with miR-34a, miR-125a or miR-186 in controls. In MM patients, lncRNA ANRIL high expression associated with higher beta-2-microglobulin (β2-MG) and more advanced international staging system (ISS) stage; miR-125a high expression associated with lower β2-MG, less advanced ISS stage and less t (14; 16) abnormality; miR186 high expression associated with increased albumin; while miR-34a did not associate with any clinical features. Furthermore, lncRNA ANRIL high expression associated with decreased complete response (CR), while miR-34a high and miR-125a high expression associated with increased CR and objective response rate. Additionally, lncRNA ANRIL high expression associated with shorter progression-free survival (PFS), while miR-34a high expression associated with prolonged overall survival (OS), and miR-125a high expression associated with longer PFS and OS.

CONCLUSION

LncRNA ANRIL and its target miRNAs might serve as biomarkers for assisting with personalized treatment and prognosis improvement of MM.

The Role of lncRNAs in the Pathobiology and Clinical Behavior of Multiple Myeloma

Simple Summary

Multiple myeloma (MM), the second most common hematological neoplasm, is still considered an incurable disease. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), genes that do not encode proteins, participate in numerous biological processes, but their deregulation, like that of coding genes, can contribute to carcinogenesis. Increasing evidence points to the relevant role of lncRNAs in the development of human tumors, such that they emerge as attractive biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, including MM. Here we review the oncogenic or tumor-suppressor functions of lncRNAs in MM and provide an overview of novel therapeutic approaches based on lncRNAs that will help to improve the management of these patients.

Abstract

MM is a hematological neoplasm that is still considered an incurable disease. Besides established genetic alterations, recent studies have shown that MM pathogenesis is also characterized by epigenetic aberrations, such as the gain of de novo active chromatin marks in promoter and enhancer regions and extensive DNA hypomethylation of intergenic regions, highlighting the relevance of these non-coding genomic regions. A recent study described how long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) correspond to 82% of the MM transcriptome and an increasing number of studies have demonstrated the importance of deregulation of lncRNAs in MM. In this review we focus on the deregulated lncRNAs in MM, including their biological or functional mechanisms, their role as biomarkers to improve the prognosis and monitoring of MM patients, and their participation in drug resistance. Furthermore, we also discuss the evidence supporting the role of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets through different novel RNA-based strategies.

Downregulation of OIP5-AS1 affects proNGF-induced pancreatic cancer metastasis by inhibiting p75NTR levels

We aimed to explore the mechanism by which long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) OIP5-AS1 affects proNGF (precursor nerve growth factor)-induced pancreatic cancer metastasis by targeting the miR-186-5p/NGFR axis. Bioinformatics was used to analyse whether OIP5-AS1 targets miR-186-5p/NGFR and their expression characteristics in pancreatic cancer. OIP5-AS1 and NGFR were overexpressed in pancreatic cancer, and their levels showed a significant positive correlation. Clinical trials also demonstrated that high expression of OIP5-AS1 and NGFR and low expression of miR-186-5p played a pro-cancer role in pancreatic cancer. MiR-186-5p inhibited the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells by targeting NGFR-regulated p75NTR. OIP5-AS1 regulated the action of miR-186-5p on NGFR mRNA and p75NTR by targeting miR-186-5p. Downregulation of NGFR inhibited the expression of p75NTR protein and blocked the role of proNGF in promoting the migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. Animal experiments also showed that the knockdown of miR-186-5p promoted cancer via the expression of NGFR mRNA and p75NTR protein, while the downregulation of proNGF blocked the effects. OIP5-AS1, as a ceRNA, promotes the progression of pancreatic cancer by targeting miR-186-5p/NGFR and affecting the prognosis of patients, which may be related to the action of proNGF.

PI3 kinase signaling pathway in hematopoietic cancers: A glance in miRNA's role

Hematopoietic cancers are among the most common malignancies worldwide, which are divided into different types depending on the origin of tumor cells. In recent years, the pivotal role of different signaling pathways in the onset and progression of these cancer types has been well established. One of these pathways, whose role in blood malignancies has been well-defined, is PI3K/mTOR/AKT axis. The signaling pathway involves in a wide variety of important biological events in cells. It is clear that dysregulation of mediators involved in PI3 kinase signaling takes a pivotal role in cancer development. Considering the undeniable role of miRNAs, as one of the well-known families of non-coding RNAs, in gene regulation, we aimed to review the role of miRNAs in regulation of PI3 kinase signaling effectors in hematopoietic cancers.