A new long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is induced in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and down-regulates several anticancer and cell differentiation genes in mouse

Discovery of differentially expressed lncRNAs in porcine ovaries with smaller and bigger litter size

Introduction

The number of litters is an important reproductive trait, which is one of the main indicators reflecting the production level and economic benefit of the pig farm. As an important reproductive organ of female mammals, the ovary is controlled by a complex transcription network of coding and non-coding genes to undergo a series of biological processes during each estrus cycle, thereby regulating the reproductive capacity of the sow. However, these molecular regulation mechanisms affecting sow litter size are still unclear.

Methods

Regarding the non-coding molecular regulatory mechanisms in ovarian function with smaller and larger litter size (SLS and LLS), we investigated the expression profile of lncRNA in pig SLS and LLS samples. Total RNAs from porcine ovaries were used to construct libraries using Ribo-Zero RNA sequencing method.

Results

Here we profiled the expression of lncRNA in porcine ovaries with SLS and LLS, and identified a total of 3,556 lncRNA candidates, of which 96 were upregulated lncRNA and 206 were downregulated lncRNA when comparing LLS to SLS. In addition, a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed, and it was found that lncRNAs LOC100513133 and LOC102168075 may serve as ceRNAs containing potential binding sites for miR-26b, let-7g and miR-125b.

Discussion

These results demonstrate that lncRNAs may play roles in modulating porcine litter size.

Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications of Long Non-coding RNAs in Cutaneous Biology and Disease

Human skin is the largest organ of the human body and accounts for approximately fifteen percent of the total bodyweight. Its main physiological role is to protect the body against a wide range of environmental factors including pathogens, ultraviolet light, and injury. Importantly, the skin can regenerate and heal upon injury in large part by the differentiation of keratinocytes. Not surprisingly, dysregulation of cutaneous differentiation and self-renewal can result in a variety of skin-related pathologies, including autoimmune disease and cancer. Increasing evidence supports the premise that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as critical mediators of gene expression and regulate important biological processes within the skin. Notably, dysregulation of lncRNAs has been shown to influence diverse physiological and pathological consequences. More recently, numerous reports have revealed new mechanistic insight on the role that lncRNAs play in skin homeostasis as well as their contribution to the pathogenesis of skin-related disorders. Here, we review the biological functions of cutaneous lncRNAs and their impact on skin homeostasis. We also describe the fundamental roles of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of skin-related disorders, including fibrotic, autoimmune, and malignant diseases. Lastly, we will highlight how a better understanding of lncRNAs at the molecular level may reveal novel therapeutic approaches for the improvement of cutaneous disorders.

The Loss of PPARγ Expression and Signaling Is a Key Feature of Cutaneous Actinic Disease and Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Association with Tumor Stromal Inflammation

Given the importance of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma in epidermal inflammation and carcinogenesis, we analyzed the transcriptomic changes observed in epidermal PPARγ-deficient mice (Pparg-/-epi). A gene set enrichment analysis revealed a close association with epithelial malignancy, inflammatory cell chemotaxis, and cell survival. Single-cell sequencing of Pparg-/-epi mice verified changes to the stromal compartment, including increased inflammatory cell infiltrates, particularly neutrophils, and an increase in fibroblasts expressing myofibroblast marker genes. A comparison of transcriptomic data from Pparg-/-epi and publicly available human and/or mouse actinic keratoses (AKs) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) revealed a strong correlation between the datasets. Importantly, PPAR signaling was the top common inhibited canonical pathway in AKs and SCCs. Both AKs and SCCs also had significantly reduced PPARG expression and PPARγ activity z-scores. Smaller reductions in PPARA expression and PPARα activity and increased PPARD expression but reduced PPARδ activation were also observed. Reduced PPAR activity was also associated with reduced PPARα/RXRα activity, while LPS/IL1-mediated inhibition of RXR activity was significantly activated in the tumor datasets. Notably, these changes were not observed in normal sun-exposed skin relative to non-exposed skin. Finally, Ppara and Pparg were heavily expressed in sebocytes, while Ppard was highly expressed in myofibroblasts, suggesting that PPARδ has a role in myofibroblast differentiation. In conclusion, these data provide strong evidence that PPARγ and possibly PPARα represent key tumor suppressors by acting as master inhibitors of the inflammatory changes found in AKs and SCCs.

Engineered Immunologic Niche Monitors Checkpoint Blockade Response and Probes Mechanisms of Resistance

Antibodies to programmed cell death protein1 (anti-PD-1) have become a promising immunotherapy for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), blocking PD-L1 signaling from pro-tumor cells through T cell PD-1 receptor binding. Nevertheless, only 10-20% of PD-L1+ metastatic TNBC patients who meet criteria benefit from ICB, and biomarkers to predict patient response have been elusive. We have previously developed an immunological niche, consisting of a microporous implant in the subcutaneous space, that supports tissue formation whose immune composition is consistent with that within vital organs. Herein, we investigated dynamic gene expression within this immunological niche to provide biomarkers of response to anti-PD-1. In a 4T1 model of metastatic TNBC, we observed sensitivity and resistance to anti-PD-1 based on primary tumor growth and survival. The niche was biopsied before, during, and after anti-PD-1 therapy, and analyzed for cell types and gene expression indicative of treatment refractivity. Myeloid cell-to-lymphocyte ratios were altered between ICB-sensitivity and resistance. Longitudinal analysis of gene expression implicated dynamic myeloid cell function that stratified sensitivity from resistance. A niche-derived gene signature predicted sensitivity or resistance prior to therapy. Analysis of the niche to monitor immunotherapy response presents a new opportunity to personalize care and investigate mechanisms underlying treatment resistance.

Novel Insights on Ferroptosis Modulation as Potential Strategy for Cancer Treatment: When Nature Kills

Significance: The multifactorial nature of the mechanisms implicated in cancer development still represents a major issue for the success of established antitumor therapies. The discovery of ferroptosis, a novel form of programmed cell death distinct from apoptosis, along with the identification of the molecular pathways activated during its execution, has led to the uncovering of novel molecules characterized by ferroptosis-inducing properties. Recent advances: As of today, the ferroptosis-inducing properties of compounds derived from natural sources have been investigated and interesting findings have been reported both in vitro and in vivo. Critical Issues: Despite the efforts made so far, only a limited number of synthetic compounds have been identified as ferroptosis inducers, and their utilization is still limited to basic research. In this review, we analyzed the most important biochemical pathways involved in ferroptosis execution, with particular attention to the newest literature findings on canonical and non-canonical hallmarks, together with mechanisms of action of natural compounds identified as novel ferroptosis inducers. Compounds have been classified based on their chemical structure, and modulation of ferroptosis-related biochemical pathways has been reported. Future Directions: The outcomes herein collected represent a fascinating starting point from which to take hints for future drug discovery studies aimed at identifying ferroptosis-inducing natural compounds for anticancer therapies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 40, 40-85.

Molecular Alterations in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Immunocompetent and Immunosuppressed Hosts-A Systematic Review

The characterization of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) at the molecular level is lacking in the current literature due to the high mutational burden of this disease. Immunosuppressed patients afflicted with cSCC experience considerable morbidity and mortality. In this article, we review the molecular profile of cSCC among the immunosuppressed and immunocompetent populations at the genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteometabolomic levels, as well as describing key differences in the tumor immune microenvironment between these two populations. We feature novel biomarkers from the recent literature which may serve as potential targets for therapy.

Role of non-coding RNAs in the progression and resistance of cutaneous malignancies and autoimmune diseases

Skin, the largest organ of human body, is vital for the existence and survival of human beings. Further, developmental and physiological mechanisms associated with cutaneous biology are vital for homeostasis as their deregulations converge towards pathogenesis of a number of skin diseases, including cancer. It has now been well accepted that most of the transcribed human genome lacks protein translational potential and has been termed as non-coding RNAs (nc-RNAs), which includes circular RNA (circRNA), small nuclear RNA (snRNA), small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA), micro RNA (miRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), and piwi-interacting RNA (piRNAs). These nc-RNAs have gained great attention in both preclinical and clinical research as they are critical in most of the regulatory mechanisms of biological homeostasis and disease development by controlling the gene expression at transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic level. In this review we have illustrated how nc-RNAs are critical in the development and maintenance of cutaneous homeostasis and functioning and also, most importantly, how the dysregulated expression and functioning of nc-RNAs play critical role in the pathogenesis of cutaneous diseases including cancer and the autoimmune skin diseases. Considering the vital role of nc-RNAs in cancer resistance, metastasis and autoimmune diseases, we have also highlighted their role as promising prognostic and therapeutic targets for the cutaneous diseases.

Close interactions between lncRNAs, lipid metabolism and ferroptosis in cancer

Abnormal lipid metabolism including synthesis, uptake, modification, degradation and transport has been considered a hallmark of malignant tumors and contributes to the supply of substances and energy for rapid cell growth. Meanwhile, abnormal lipid metabolism is also associated with lipid peroxidation, which plays an important role in a newly discovered type of regulated cell death termed ferroptosis. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proven to be associated with the occurrence and progression of cancer. Growing evidence indicates that lncRNAs are key regulators of abnormal lipid metabolism and ferroptosis in cancer. In this review, we mainly summarized the mechanism by which lncRNAs regulate aberrant lipid metabolism in cancer, illustrated that lipid metabolism can also influence the expression of lncRNAs, and discussed the mechanism by which lncRNAs affect ferroptosis. A comprehensive understanding of the interactions between lncRNAs, lipid metabolism and ferroptosis could help us to develop novel strategies for precise cancer treatment in the future.

Integrated analysis of mRNA and long non-coding RNA expression profiles reveals the potential roles of lncRNA-mRNA network in carp macrophage immune regulation

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as a hot topic in research as mounting evidence has indicated their transcriptional or post-transcriptional regulatory potential in multiple biological processes. Previous studies have revealed the involvement of lncRNAs in the immunoregulation of mammalian macrophages by changing mRNA expression; however, studies on the lncRNAs in fish macrophages and their potential roles in the immune system remain unknown. Primary macrophages were isolated from the head kidney (HK) of red common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and high-throughput lncRNA-mRNA sequencing was performed using the Illumina HiSeq platform. The results revealed that the most highly expressed mRNAs in primary HK macrophages were mainly involved in immune-related signal pathways. Furthermore, the most enriched immune-related GO term and KEGG pathway of the mRNAs were "immune system development" and "chemokine signaling pathway," respectively. A total of 20,333 lncRNAs, composed of 10,512 known and 9821 novel lncRNAs, were identified, and functional enrichment analysis of the lncRNA-mRNA network indicated that the expressed lncRNAs in primary HK macrophages could be associated with the regulation of multiple immune-related signaling pathways. In addition, the expressions of several selected lncRNAs and their related mRNAs were determined in carp macrophages following a 6-h exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Poly(I: C), the results of which confirmed the co-expression regulation of lncRNAs and target mRNAs in the immune response of carp macrophages. These results suggest the correlative of the lncRNA-mRNA network in fish macrophage immune response, which may further affect the cross-talk of various signaling pathways by interaction with other network genes. Here, we provided fundamental data about the transcriptome profiles of primary HK macrophages from red common carp by analysis of the lncRNA-mRNA network, and ultimately suggest the potential roles of lncRNA-mRNA networks in immune regulation in teleost fish.

Roles of the H19/microRNA‑675 axis in the proliferation and epithelial‑mesenchymal transition of human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cells

The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 and microRNA(miR)-675 were reported to serve an important role in the tumorigenesis and metastasis of numerous cancer types by promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process; however, the underlying mechanisms of action of H19 and miR-675 in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) remain unknown. The mRNA expression levels of H19 and miR-675 were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, and Cell Counting Kit-8, wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to analyze the cell proliferation, migration and invasion of cSCC cells, respectively. The levels of cell apoptosis were also determined using a TUNEL assay. Protein expression levels of p53 and marker proteins related to the EMT process were analyzed using western blotting. In addition, a dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to determine the interactions between H19, miR-675 and p53. The results of the present study revealed that the expression levels of H19 and miR-675 were upregulated in cSCC tissues and cSCC cell lines. The knockdown of H19 or miR-675 expression inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but induced cell apoptosis. In addition, the expression levels of EMT-related markers were also downregulated. The overexpression of H19 upregulated the expression levels of its predicted target, miR-675, which subsequently promoted the EMT process and downregulated the expression levels of p53. Conversely, the genetic silencing of H19 or miR-675 inhibited proliferation and invasion in SCL1 and A431 cSCC cell lines. In conclusion, the findings of the present study provided novel insight into the potential role of H19 and miR-675 in the development, metastasis and progression of cSCC, which may help the development of treatments for cSCC.

Long non‑coding RNA MEG3 inhibits cell migration and invasion of non‑small cell lung cancer cells by regulating the miR‑21‑5p/PTEN axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the occurrence and progression of numerous types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the lncRNA maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) on the migration and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) H1299 and PC9 cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative (RT-q)PCR analysis showed that MEG3 was downregulated in NSCLC PC9 and H1299 cells. Additionally, bioinformatics analysis indicated that MEG3 sponges microRNA (miR)-21-5p; miR-21-5p was predicted to target the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) 3′-untranslated region sequence. MEG3 overexpression led to miR-21-5p suppression and PTEN upregulation in PC9 and H1299 cells, as detected by RT-qPCR. Subsequently, western blot analysis confirmed that MEG3 overexpression enhanced PTEN expression levels and inhibited the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in NSCLC cells. These effects were attenuated by miR-21-5p. Dual luciferase assay supported the sponging effect of MEG3 on miR-21-5p and validated the direct interaction between miR-21-5p and PTEN. Furthermore, Transwell assay demonstrated that MEG3 overexpression had an inhibitory effect on cell migration and invasion. MEG3 overexpression also mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by significantly enhancing E-cadherin and decreasing N-cadherin, Vimentin and matrix metalloprotein 9 expression levels in NSCLC cells, as indicated by western blot analysis. These changes were partially reversed by an miR-21-5p mimic. These results indicated that MEG3 acted as a tumor suppressor that inhibited NSCLC cell migration and invasion via sponging miR-21-5p, which, in turn, enhanced the expression levels of PTEN, in part via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The results of the present study have suggested the potential of MEG3 as a novel therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.

Retinoids in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Animal studies as early as the 1920s suggested that vitamin A deficiency leads to squamous cell metaplasia in numerous epithelial tissues including the skin. However, humans usually die from vitamin A deficiency before cancers have time to develop. A recent long-term cohort study found that high dietary vitamin A reduced the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). cSCC is a form of nonmelanoma skin cancer that primarily occurs from excess exposure to ultraviolet light B (UVB). These cancers are expensive to treat and can lead to metastasis and death. Oral synthetic retinoids prevent the reoccurrence of cSCC, but side effects limit their use in chemoprevention. Several proteins involved in vitamin A metabolism and signaling are altered in cSCC, which may lead to retinoid resistance. The expression of vitamin A metabolism proteins may also have prognostic value. This article reviews what is known about natural and synthetic retinoids and their metabolism in cSCC.

The Current State of Research Regarding the Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Skin cancers, including those of both both melanoma and non-melanoma subtypes, remain among the most common forms of human cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancers are typically further differentiated into the basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) categories. Current approaches to diagnosing and treating cSCC remain unsatisfactory, and the prognosis for patients with this disease is relatively poor. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing have led to an increasingly robust understanding of the diversity of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) expressed in both physiological and pathological contexts. These ncRNAs include microRNAs, long ncRNAs, and circular RNAs, all of which have been found to play key functional roles and/or to have value as diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets in a range of different disease contexts. The number of ncRNAs associated with cSCC continues to rise, and as such, there is clear value in comprehensively reviewing the functional roles of these molecules in this form of cancer in order to highlight future avenues for research and clinical development.

Epigenetic regulation in the pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer

Understanding of cancer with the help of ever-expanding cutting edge technological tools and bioinformatics is revolutionizing modern cancer research by broadening the space of discovery window of various genomic and epigenomic processes. Genomics data integrated with multi-omics layering have advanced cancer research. Uncovering such layers of genetic mutations/modifications, epigenetic regulation and their role in the complex pathophysiology of cancer progression could lead to novel therapeutic interventions. Although a plethora of literature is available in public domain defining the role of various tumor driver gene mutations, understanding of epigenetic regulation of cancer is still emerging. This review focuses on epigenetic regulation association with the pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). NMSC has higher prevalence in Caucasian populations compared to other races. Due to lack of proper reporting to cancer registries, the incidence rates for NMSC worldwide cannot be accurately estimated. However, this is the most common neoplasm in humans, and millions of new cases per year are reported in the United States alone. In organ transplant recipients, the incidence of NMSC particularly of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is very high and these SCCs frequently become metastatic and lethal. Understanding of solar ultraviolet (UV) light-induced damage and impaired DNA repair process leading to DNA mutations and nuclear instability provide an insight into the pathogenesis of metastatic neoplasm. This review discusses the recent advances in the field of epigenetics of NMSCs. Particularly, the role of DNA methylation, histone hyperacetylation and non-coding RNA such as long-chain noncoding (lnc) RNAs, circular RNAs and miRNA in the disease progression are summarized.

Long non-coding RNAs in cutaneous biology and keratinocyte carcinomas

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a largely uncharacterized group of non-coding RNAs with diverse regulatory roles in various biological processes. Recent observations have elucidated the functional roles of lncRNAs in cutaneous biology, e.g. in proliferation and differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes and in cutaneous wound repair. Furthermore, the role of lncRNAs in keratinocyte-derived skin cancers is emerging, especially in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), which presents a significant burden to health care services worldwide and causes high mortality as metastatic disease. Elucidation of the functions of keratinocyte-specific lncRNAs will improve understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of epidermal disorders and skin cancers and can be exploited in development of new diagnostic and therapeutic applications for keratinocyte carcinomas. In this review, we summarize the current evidence of functionally important lncRNAs in cutaneous biology and in keratinocyte carcinomas.

The long non-coding RNA LINC00473 contributes to cell proliferation via JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway by regulating miR-195-5p/SEPT2 axis in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a kind of male malignant tumor, which has brought tremendous health threat to men. Prostate cancer is difficult to be cured because of high incidence and metastasis rate. Thereby, it is of great urgency to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism of prostate cancer for the treatment of this cancer. LINC00473 dysregulation has been observed in many cancers. However, the role of LINC00473 was unknown in prostate cancer. In the present study, we discovered that prostate cancer cells presented high expression of LINC00473, and LINC00473 inhibition limited cell proliferation and the expression of proteins in JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway. Additionally, LINC00473 acted as an up-stream factor for miR-195-5p to negatively modulate miR-195-5p expression. Moreover, SEPT2 interacted with miR-195-5p in prostate cancer and SEPT2 expression was positively modulated by LINC00473 and negatively regulated by miR-195-5p. Last, the inhibitory effect of LINC00473 knockdown on cell proliferation and expression of proteins of JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway was restored by SEPT2 overexpression. All in all, LINC00473 contributed to cell proliferation via JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway by regulating miR-195-5p/SEPT2 axis in prostate cancer, which provided a novel therapeutic tactic for prostate cancer patients.

Long non-coding RNA PICSAR knockdown inhibits the progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by regulating miR-125b/YAP1 axis

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to explore the precise role and mechanism of p38 inhibiting cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma associated lincRNA (PICSAR) in CSCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression levels of PICSAR, microRNA-125b (miR-125b) and yes-associated protein1 (YAP1) were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, flow cytometry, transwell assay, respectively. The interaction between miR-125b and PICSAR or YAP1 was predicted by bioinformatics software and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Western blot was employed to detect the protein expression of YAP1. The mice xenograft model was established to investigate the role of PICSAR in vivo.

KEY FINDINGS

PICSAR was upregulated in CSCC tissues and cells. PICSAR knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and invasion and induced apoptosis in CSCC cells. Moreover, miR-125b could directly bind to PICSAR and its inhibition reversed the effect of PICSAR knockdown on proliferation, invasion and apoptosis in CSCC cells. In addition, YAP1 was a direct target of miR-125b and its overexpression attenuated the anti-cancer role of miR-125b in CSCC cells. Furthermore, YAP1 expression was positively regulated by PICSAR and negatively regulated by miR-125b. Besides, interference of PICSAR suppressed tumor growth by upregulating miR-125b and downregulating YAP1.

SIGNIFICANCE

PICSAR knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and invasion and promoted apoptosis in CSCC cells by regulating miR-125b/YAP1 axis, providing new sights for treatment of CSCC.

The Downregulation of lncRNA pgm5-as1 Inhibits the Proliferation and Metastasis Via Increasing miR-484 Expression in Colorectal Cancer

Background: Bioinformatics showed that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) pgm5-as1 was regulated in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), and miR-484 was also regulated in CRC. We aimed at determining the modulatory pathway of lncRNA pgm5-as1 in CRC cells, and whether miR-484 was involved in the pathway. Materials and Methods: The target gene of pgm5-as1 was predicted by bioinformatics and verified by dual luciferase assay. Transcription levels of pgm5-as1 and miR-484 were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Viability, migration rate, invasion, and growth of SW480 and HCT116 cells were determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), wound healing assay, transwell, and colony formation assay, respectively. Results: pgm5-as1 was upregulated in CRC tissues and cell lines; however, its downregulation contributed to the decreasing of cell viability, growth, migration, and invasion of SW480 and HCT116 cells. Moreover, miR-484 was predicted as the target of pgm5-as1, and the downregulation of pgm5-as1 partially restored the elevated cell viability, growth, migration, and invasion that were induced by the inhibition of miR-484 expression in SW480 and HCT116 cells. Conclusions: The loss of miR-484 expression in CRC might be involved in the promotion and metastasis of CRC, which may be caused by the overexpression of pgm5-as1. Hence, the downregulation of pgm5-as1 could be a therapeutic target in the prevention or intervention of CRC.

The brain acid-soluble protein 1 (BASP1) interferes with the oncogenic capacity of MYC and its binding to calmodulin

The MYC protein is a transcription factor with oncogenic potential controlling fundamental cellular processes such as cell proliferation, metabolism, differentiation, and apoptosis. The MYC gene is a major cancer driver, and elevated MYC protein levels are a hallmark of most human cancers. We have previously shown that the brain acid-soluble protein 1 gene (BASP1) is specifically downregulated by the v-myc oncogene and that ectopic BASP1 expression inhibits v-myc-induced cell transformation. The 11-amino acid effector domain of the BASP1 protein interacts with the calcium sensor calmodulin (CaM) and is mainly responsible for this inhibitory function. We also reported recently that CaM interacts with all MYC variant proteins and that ectopic CaM increases the transactivation and transformation potential of the v-Myc protein. Here, we show that the presence of excess BASP1 or of a synthetic BASP1 effector domain peptide leads to displacement of v-Myc from CaM. The protein stability of v-Myc is decreased in cells co-expressing v-Myc and BASP1, which may account for the inhibition of v-Myc. Furthermore, suppression of v-Myc-triggered transcriptional activation and cell transformation is compensated by ectopic CaM, suggesting that BASP1-mediated withdrawal of CaM from v-Myc is a crucial event in the inhibition. In view of the tumor-suppressive role of BASP1 which was recently also reported for human cancer, small compounds or peptides based on the BASP1 effector domain could be used in drug development strategies aimed at tumors with high MYC expression.

The Roles of lncRNA in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma derives from keratinocytes and is the second most common cause of non-melanoma skin cancer. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) develops rapidly and is also the leading cause of death in non-melanoma cancers. Lymph node metastasis occurs in 5% of cSCC patients, and some patients may even metastasize to the viscera. Patients with regional lymphatic metastasis or distant metastases have a <20% 10-year survival rate, indicating the substantial challenge in treating advanced and metastatic cSCC. Some lncRNAs have been found to be abnormally overexpressed in many tumor tissues, so that they can be considered as potential new biomarkers or targets that can be used in the diagnosis and treatment of cSCC in the future. In this review, we summarize the role of lncRNA in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma to make a better understanding of mutations in cSCC and lay the foundation for effective target therapy of cSCC.

Upregulation of OIP5-AS1 Predicts Poor Prognosis and Contributes to Thyroid Cancer Cell Proliferation and Migration

As a common malignancy, thyroid cancer mainly occurs in the endocrine system. There have been accumulating studies on therapeutic methods of thyroid cancer, but its internal molecular mechanism is still not fully understood. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) OIP5-AS1 was confirmed as an oncogene and related to poor prognosis in various cancers. Nevertheless, its role and underlying mechanism remain unclear in thyroid cancer. Here, we observed a significant upregulation of OIP5-AS1 in thyroid cancer tissues and cells, and upregulated OIP5-AS1 was correlated with poor prognosis in thyroid cancer. Moreover, OIP5-AS1 knockdown resulted in the inhibited cell proliferation and migration, while overexpressed OIP5-AS1 exhibited the reverse function in thyroid cancer. Besides, OIP5-AS1 was found to positively regulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Through mechanism exploration, OIP5-AS1 was discovered to activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway via FXR1/YY1/CTNNB1 axis. Finally, rescue assays indicated that the inhibitive role of silenced OIP5-AS1 in thyroid cancer cell growth and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway could be rescued by overexpression of CTNNB1 or addition of lithium chloride (LiCl). In conclusion, upregulation of OIP5-AS1 predicted unfavorable prognosis and enhanced thyroid cancer cell growth by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

DLX6-AS1 promotes cell proliferation, migration and EMT of gastric cancer through FUS-regulated MAP4K1

Gastric cancer (GC) is the second most prevalent carcinoma resulting in cancer-related deaths in the world, with differences among geographic areas. Although the incidence and mortality rates of GC in Asia are decreasing, the search for diverse and effective therapies of GC is still needed to be fully inquired. The present research explored the expression pattern, functional role and underlying mechanism of DLX6-AS1 in GC. Firstly, we measured DLX6-AS1 expression in GC and then found the elevated level of DLX6-AS1. To further inspect the function role of DLX6-AS1 involved in GC, we performed lost-of-function assays. The silencing of DLX6-AS1 suppressed cell proliferation, migration and EMT process of GC cells. Subsequently, we uncovered that MAP4K1 was also up-regulated in GC and could be positively regulated by DLX6-AS1. Moreover, MAP4K1 down-regulation similarly inhibited GC progression. In addition, DLX6-AS1 stabilized MAP4K1 via modulating FUS. In summary, DLX6-AS1 modulated GC progression through FUS-regulated MAP4K1. Our paper exposed the role and regulatory mechanism of DLX6-AS1 in GC, which suggested a novel and valid therapy for GC patients.

MiR-1193 was sponged by LINC00963 and inhibited cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression by targeting SOX4

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), a class of skin tumor derived from epidermal keratinocyte, is reputed as one of the most malignant tumors globally. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly identified as essential players in CSCC. Current study aimed to uncover the impact and mechanism of miR-1193 in CSCC. We identified the low expression of miR-1193 in CSCC cell lines. Gain- and loss-of-function assays showed that miR-1193 acted as an inhibitor of proliferation and migration in CSCC cells. Furthermore, we illustrated that miR-1193 targeted and inhibited SRY-box 4 (SOX4), and that long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 963 (LINC00963) sponged miR-1193 to upregulate SOX4 expression. Rescue assays showed that LINC00963 regulated CSCC progression through miR-1193/SOX4 axis. In conclusion, our study firstly revealed the LINC00963/miR-1193/SOX4 axis in CSCC, indicating miR-1193 as a promising biological target in CSCC progression.

Long non-coding RNA H19 knockdown inhibits the cell viability and promotes apoptosis of thyroid cancer cells through regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway

Certain long non-coding (lnc)RNAs have been reported to serve important roles in the genesis and progression of thyroid cancer (TC). Recent studies have demonstrated that the expression of lncRNA H19 is upregulated in TC tissues; however, knowledge of the associated molecular mechanisms is limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to clarify the roles of H19 in TC. The mRNA expression of lncRNA H19 in TC tissues was determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, and the effects of H19 knockdown on cell viability and apoptosis in vitro were assessed using MTT and flow cytometric assays, respectively. Finally, the signaling pathways involved in the effects of H19 were examined. The results indicated that H19 was upregulated in TC tissues. Silencing of H19 inhibited the cell viability and promoted apoptosis of FTC-133 and TPC-1 TC cells, accompanied by an increased expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein and caspase 3, and repressed expression of Bcl-2. The results of western blot analysis suggested that the levels of phosphorylated phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) and phosphorylated AKT were attenuated by H19 silencing. These results suggest that lncRNA H19 exerts an oncogenic function in TC, in part through the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Knockdown of LINC00511 promotes radiosensitivity of thyroid carcinoma cells via suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Thyroid carcinoma is the most widespread malignancy in endocrine system with the increasing incidence. Despite of the advanced approaches to the management of thyroid carcinoma, the therapeutic effects remain unpleasant largely due to the radiosensitivity of thyroid carcinoma cells. LncRNAs play important part in the tumorigenesis and development, especially in the radiosensitivity of tumor cells. However, their roles in thyroid carcinoma still needed to be explored deeply. The purpose of our research is to inspect the possible biological role and regulation mechanism of LINC00511 desirable for therapies of thyroid carcinoma patients. In the present study, LINC00511 was significantly overexpressed in thyroid carcinoma and its silencing boosted radiosensitivity of thyroid carcinoma cells. Then we unveiled that LINC00511 regulated JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway which was resistant to radiation treatment. Besides, TAF1 modulated JAK2 at transcriptional level. Moreover, LINC00511 bound to TAF1 and further promoted JAK2 expression. In conclusion, rescue experiments verified that the radiosensitivity of thyroid carcinoma cells was attributed to LINC00511/TAF1/JAK2/STAT3 axis. The current paper investigated the underlying mechanism of LINC00511 and set a new therapeutic direction for the therapy of thyroid carcinoma.

Human skin long noncoding RNA WAKMAR1 regulates wound healing by enhancing keratinocyte migration

Although constituting the majority of the transcriptional output of the human genome, the functional importance of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has only recently been recognized. The role of lncRNAs in wound healing is virtually unknown. Our study focused on a skin-specific lncRNA, termed “wound and keratinocyte migration-associated lncRNA 1” (WAKMAR1), which is down-regulated in wound-edge keratinocytes of human chronic nonhealing wounds compared with normal wounds under reepithelialization. We identified WAKMAR1 as being critical for keratinocyte migration and its deficiency as impairing wound reepithelialization. Mechanistically, WAKMAR1 interacts with DNA methyltransferases and interferes with the promoter methylation of the E2F1 gene, which is a key transcription factor controlling a network of migratory genes. This line of evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs play an essential role in human skin wound healing.

An increasing number of studies reveal the importance of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in gene expression control underlying many physiological and pathological processes. However, their role in skin wound healing remains poorly understood. Our study focused on a skin-specific lncRNA, LOC105372576, whose expression was increased during physiological wound healing. In human nonhealing wounds, however, its level was significantly lower compared with normal wounds under reepithelialization. We characterized LOC105372576 as a nuclear-localized, RNAPII-transcribed, and polyadenylated lncRNA. In keratinocytes, its expression was induced by TGF-β signaling. Knockdown of LOC105372576 and activation of its endogenous transcription, respectively, reduced and increased the motility of keratinocytes and reepithelialization of human ex vivo skin wounds. Therefore, LOC105372576 was termed “wound and keratinocyte migration-associated lncRNA 1” (WAKMAR1). Further study revealed that WAKMAR1 regulated a network of protein-coding genes important for cell migration, most of which were under the control of transcription factor E2F1. Mechanistically, WAKMAR1 enhanced E2F1 expression by interfering with E2F1 promoter methylation through the sequestration of DNA methyltransferases. Collectively, we have identified a lncRNA important for keratinocyte migration, whose deficiency may be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic wounds.

A Unique Family of Neuronal Signaling Proteins Implicated in Oncogenesis and Tumor Suppression

The neuronal proteins GAP43 (neuromodulin), MARCKS, and BASP1 are highly expressed in the growth cones of nerve cells where they are involved in signal transmission and cytoskeleton organization. Although their primary structures are unrelated, these signaling proteins share several structural properties like fatty acid modification, and the presence of cationic effector domains. GAP43, MARCKS, and BASP1 bind to cell membrane phospholipids, a process reversibly regulated by protein kinase C-phosphorylation or by binding to the calcium sensor calmodulin (CaM). GAP43, MARCKS, and BASP1 are also expressed in non-neuronal cells, where they may have important functions to manage cytoskeleton architecture, and in case of MARCKS and BASP1 to act as cofactors in transcriptional regulation. During neoplastic cell transformation, the proteins reveal differential expression in normal vs. tumor cells, and display intrinsic tumor promoting or tumor suppressive activities. Whereas GAP43 and MARCKS are oncogenic, tumor suppressive functions have been ascribed to BASP1 and in part to MARCKS depending on the cell type. Like MARCKS, the myristoylated BASP1 protein is localized both in the cytoplasm and in the cell nucleus. Nuclear BASP1 participates in gene regulation converting the Wilms tumor transcription factor WT1 from an oncoprotein into a tumor suppressor. The BASP1 gene is downregulated in many human tumor cell lines particularly in those derived from leukemias, which display elevated levels of WT1 and of the major cancer driver MYC. BASP1 specifically inhibits MYC-induced cell transformation in cultured cells. The tumor suppressive functions of BASP1 and MARCKS could be exploited to expand the spectrum of future innovative therapeutic approaches to inhibit growth and viability of susceptible human tumors.

Towards topical microRNA-directed therapy for epidermal disorders

There remains an unmet dermatological need for innovative topical agents that achieve better longterm outcomes with fewer side effects. Modulation of the expression and activity of microRNA (miRNAs) represents an emerging translational framework for the development of such innovative therapies because changes in the expression of one miRNA can have wide-ranging effects on diverse cellular processes associated with disease. In this short review, the roles of miRNA in epidermal development, psoriasis, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and re-epithelisation are highlighted. Consideration is given to the delivery of oligonucleotides that mimic or inhibit miRNA function using vehicles such as cell penetrating peptides, spherical nucleic acids, deformable liposomes and liquid crystalline nanodispersions. Formulation of miRNA-directed oligonucleotides with such skin-penetrating epidermal agents will drive the development of RNA-based cutaneous therapeutics for deployment as primary or adjuvant therapies for epidermal disorders.