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Bacalhau M, Camargo M, Lopes-Pacheco M. Laboratory Tools to Predict CFTR Modulator Therapy Effectiveness and to Monitor Disease Severity in Cystic Fibrosis. J Pers Med 2024; 14:93. [PMID: 38248793 PMCID: PMC10820563 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The implementation of cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drugs into clinical practice has been attaining remarkable therapeutic outcomes for CF, a life-threatening autosomal recessive genetic disease. However, there is elevated CFTR allelic heterogeneity, and various individuals carrying (ultra)rare CF genotypes remain without any approved modulator therapy. Novel translational model systems based on individuals' own cells/tissue are now available and can be used to interrogate in vitro CFTR modulator responses and establish correlations of these assessments with clinical features, aiming to provide prediction of therapeutic effectiveness. Furthermore, because CF is a progressive disease, assessment of biomarkers in routine care is fundamental in monitoring treatment effectiveness and disease severity. In the first part of this review, we aimed to focus on the utility of individual-derived in vitro models (such as bronchial/nasal epithelial cells and airway/intestinal organoids) to identify potential responders and expand personalized CF care. Thereafter, we discussed the usage of CF inflammatory biomarkers derived from blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and sputum to routinely monitor treatment effectiveness and disease progression. Finally, we summarized the progress in investigating extracellular vesicles as a robust and reliable source of biomarkers and the identification of microRNAs related to CFTR regulation and CF inflammation as novel biomarkers, which may provide valuable information for disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Bacalhau
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute (BioISI), Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Mariana Camargo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Sao Paulo Federal University, Sao Paulo 04039-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Miquéias Lopes-Pacheco
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute (BioISI), Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
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2
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Guo Y, Wang H, Lyu R, Wang J, Wang T, Shi J, Lyu L. Nanocarrier-Mediated Delivery of MicroRNAs for Fibrotic Diseases. Mol Diagn Ther 2024; 28:53-67. [PMID: 37897655 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-023-00681-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous noncoding RNAs that mediate the fibrotic process by regulating multiple targets. MicroRNA-based therapy can restore or inhibit miRNA expression and is expected to become an effective approach to prevent and alleviate fibrotic diseases. However, the safe, targeted, and effective delivery of miRNAs is a major challenge in translating miRNA therapy from bench to bedside. In this review, we briefly describe the pathophysiological process of fibrosis and the mechanism by which miRNAs regulate the progression of fibrosis. Additionally, we summarize the miRNA nanodelivery tools for fibrotic diseases, including chemical modifications and polymer-based, lipid-based, and exosome-based delivery systems. Further clarification of the role of miRNAs in fibrosis and the development of a novel nanodelivery system may facilitate the prevention and alleviation of fibrotic diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Guo
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Hanying Wang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Rumin Lyu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Jingpei Shi
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, Yunnan, China.
| | - Lechun Lyu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Science and Technology Achievement Incubation Center, NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Yuhua Avenue, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan, China.
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3
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Blotas C, Férec C, Moisan S. Tissue-Specific Regulation of CFTR Gene Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10678. [PMID: 37445855 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 2000 variations are described within the CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator) gene and related to large clinical issues from cystic fibrosis to mono-organ diseases. Although these CFTR-associated diseases have been well documented, a large phenotype spectrum is observed and correlations between phenotypes and genotypes are still not well established. To address this issue, we present several regulatory elements that can modulate CFTR gene expression in a tissue-specific manner. Among them, cis-regulatory elements act through chromatin loopings and take part in three-dimensional structured organization. With tissue-specific transcription factors, they form chromatin modules and can regulate gene expression. Alterations of specific regulations can impact and modulate disease expressions. Understanding all those mechanisms highlights the need to expand research outside the gene to enhance our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Blotas
- Univ Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France
| | - Claude Férec
- Univ Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France
| | - Stéphanie Moisan
- Univ Brest, Inserm, EFS, UMR 1078, GGB, F-29200 Brest, France
- Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire et d'Histocompatibilité, CHU Brest, F-29200 Brest, France
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Papi C, Gasparello J, Zurlo M, Cosenza LC, Gambari R, Finotti A. The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Gene (CFTR) Is under Post-Transcriptional Control of microRNAs: Analysis of the Effects of agomiRNAs Mimicking miR-145-5p, miR-101-3p, and miR-335-5p. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:ncrna9020029. [PMID: 37104011 PMCID: PMC10146138 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9020029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: MicroRNAs are involved in the expression of the gene encoding the chloride channel CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator); the objective of this short report is to study the effects of the treatment of bronchial epithelial Calu-3 cells with molecules mimicking the activity of pre-miR-145-5p, pre-miR-335-5p, and pre-miR-101-3p, and to discuss possible translational applications of these molecules in pre-clinical studies focusing on the development of protocols of possible interest in therapy; (2) Methods: CFTR mRNA was quantified by Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). The production of the CFTR protein was assessed by Western blotting; (3) Results: The treatment of Calu-3 cells with agomiR-145-5p caused the highest inhibition of CFTR mRNA accumulation and CFTR production; (4) Conclusions: The treatment of target cells with the agomiR pre-miR-145-5p should be considered when CFTR gene expression should be inhibited in pathological conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), some types of cancer, cholera, and SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Papi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Zurlo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Carmela Cosenza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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5
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Deny M, Popotas A, Hanssens L, Lefèvre N, Arroba Nuñez LA, Ouafo GS, Corazza F, Casimir G, Chamekh M. Sex-biased expression of selected chromosome x-linked microRNAs with potent regulatory effect on the inflammatory response in children with cystic fibrosis: A preliminary pilot investigation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1114239. [PMID: 37077918 PMCID: PMC10106689 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1114239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have reported sex disparity in cystic fibrosis (CF) disease, with females experiencing more pulmonary exacerbations and frequent microbial infections resulting in shorter survival expectancy. This concerns both pubertal and prepubertal females, which is in support to the prominent role of gene dosage rather than the hormonal status. The underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. The X chromosome codes for a large number of micro-RNAs (miRNAs) that play a crucial role in the post-transcriptional regulation of several genes involved in various biological processes, including inflammation. However, their level of expression in CF males and females has not been sufficiently explored. In this study, we compared in male and female CF patients the expression of selected X-linked miRNAs involved in inflammatory processes. Cytokine and chemokine profiles were also evaluated at both protein and transcript levels and cross-analyzed with the miRNA expression levels. We observed increased expression of miR-223-3p, miR-106a-5p, miR-221-3p and miR-502-5p in CF patients compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the overexpression of miR-221-3p was found to be significantly higher in CF girls than in CF boys and this correlates positively with IL-1β. Moreover, we found a trend toward lower expression in CF girls than in CF boys of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) and the ubiquitin-editing enzyme PDLIM2, two mRNA targets of miR-221-3p that are known to inhibit the NF-κB pathway. Collectively, this clinical study highlights a sex-bias in X-linked miR-221-3p expression in blood cells and its potential contribution to sustaining a higher inflammatory response in CF girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maud Deny
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexandros Popotas
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurence Hanssens
- Institut de Mucoviscidose – Unité Pédiatrique, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Lefèvre
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Institut de Mucoviscidose – Unité Pédiatrique, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luis Alexis Arroba Nuñez
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ghislaine Simo Ouafo
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francis Corazza
- Laboratoire de Médecine Translationnelle, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Georges Casimir
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Institut de Mucoviscidose – Unité Pédiatrique, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mustapha Chamekh
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Mustapha Chamekh,
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Ghigo A, De Santi C, Hart M, Mitash N, Swiatecka-Urban A. Cell signaling and regulation of CFTR expression in cystic fibrosis cells in the era of high efficiency modulator therapy. J Cyst Fibros 2023; 22 Suppl 1:S12-S16. [PMID: 36621372 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2022.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a cAMP- and protein kinase A (PKA)-regulated channel, expressed on the luminal surface of secretory and absorptive epithelial cells. CFTR has a complex, cell-specific regulatory network playing a major role in cAMP- and Ca2+-activated secretion of electrolytes. It secretes intracellular Cl- and bicarbonate and regulates absorption of electrolytes by differentially controlling the activity of the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) in colon, airways, and sweat ducts. The CFTR gene expression is regulated by cell-specific, time-dependent mechanisms reviewed elsewhere [1]. This review will focus on the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translational regulation of CFTR by cAMP-PKA, non-coding (nc)RNAs, and TGF-β signaling pathways in cystic fibrosis (CF) cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ghigo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, Torino 10126, Italy.
| | - Chiara De Santi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 111St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Merrill Hart
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia Children's Hospital, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Nilay Mitash
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, United States
| | - Agnieszka Swiatecka-Urban
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia Children's Hospital, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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7
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Jackson JJ, Mao Y, White TR, Foye C, Oliver KE. Features of CFTR mRNA and implications for therapeutics development. Front Genet 2023; 14:1166529. [PMID: 37168508 PMCID: PMC10165737 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1166529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease impacting ∼100,000 people worldwide. This lethal disorder is caused by mutation of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which encodes an ATP-binding cassette-class C protein. More than 2,100 variants have been identified throughout the length of CFTR. These defects confer differing levels of severity in mRNA and/or protein synthesis, folding, gating, and turnover. Drug discovery efforts have resulted in recent development of modulator therapies that improve clinical outcomes for people living with CF. However, a significant portion of the CF population has demonstrated either no response and/or adverse reactions to small molecules. Additional therapeutic options are needed to restore underlying genetic defects for all patients, particularly individuals carrying rare or refractory CFTR variants. Concerted focus has been placed on rescuing variants that encode truncated CFTR protein, which also harbor abnormalities in mRNA synthesis and stability. The current mini-review provides an overview of CFTR mRNA features known to elicit functional consequences on final protein conformation and function, including considerations for RNA-directed therapies under investigation. Alternative exon usage in the 5'-untranslated region, polypyrimidine tracts, and other sequence elements that influence splicing are discussed. Additionally, we describe mechanisms of CFTR mRNA decay and post-transcriptional regulation mediated through interactions with the 3'-untranslated region (e.g. poly-uracil sequences, microRNAs). Contributions of synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms to CFTR transcript utilization are also examined. Comprehensive understanding of CFTR RNA biology will be imperative for optimizing future therapeutic endeavors intended to address presently untreatable forms of CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- JaNise J. Jackson
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yiyang Mao
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tyshawn R. White
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Catherine Foye
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kathryn E. Oliver
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Cystic Fibrosis and Airways Disease Research, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Kathryn E. Oliver,
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Combined Treatment of Bronchial Epithelial Calu-3 Cells with Peptide Nucleic Acids Targeting miR-145-5p and miR-101-3p: Synergistic Enhancement of the Expression of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ( CFTR) Gene. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169348. [PMID: 36012615 PMCID: PMC9409490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene encodes for a chloride channel defective in Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Accordingly, upregulation of its expression might be relevant for the development of therapeutic protocols for CF. MicroRNAs are deeply involved in the CFTR regulation and their targeting with miRNA inhibitors (including those based on Peptide Nucleic Acids, PNAs)is associated with CFTR upregulation. Targeting of miR-145-5p, miR-101-3p, and miR-335-5p with antisense PNAs was found to be associated with CFTR upregulation. The main objective of this study was to verify whether combined treatments with the most active PNAs are associated with increased CFTR gene expression. The data obtained demonstrate that synergism of upregulation of CFTR production can be obtained by combined treatments of Calu-3 cells with antisense PNAs targeting CFTR-regulating microRNAs. In particular, highly effective combinations were found with PNAs targeting miR-145-5p and miR-101-3p. Content of mRNAs was analyzed by RT-qPCR, the CFTR production by Western blotting. Combined treatment with antagomiRNAs might lead to maximized upregulation of CFTR and should be considered in the development of protocols for CFTR activation in pathological conditions in which CFTR gene expression is lacking, such as Cystic Fibrosis.
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Glasgow AMA, Greene CM. Epithelial damage in the cystic fibrosis lung: the role of host and microbial factors. Expert Rev Respir Med 2022; 16:737-748. [PMID: 35833354 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2022.2100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The airway epithelium is a key system within the lung. It acts as a physical barrier to inhaled factors, and can actively remove unwanted microbes and particles from the lung via the mucociliary escalator. On a physiological level, it senses the presence of pathogens and initiates innate immune responses to combat their effects. Hydration of the airways is also controlled by the epithelium. Within the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung, these properties are suboptimal and contribute to the pulmonary manifestations of CF. AREAS COVERED In this review, we discuss how various host and microbial factors can contribute to airway epithelium dysfunction in the CF lung focusing on mechanisms relating to the mucociliary escalator and protease expression and function. We also explore how alterations in microRNA expression can impact the behavior of the airway epithelium. EXPERT OPINION Notwithstanding the unprecedented benefits that CFTR modulator drugs now provide to the health of CF sufferers, it will be important to delve more deeply into additional mechanisms underpinning CF lung disease such as those illustrated here in an attempt to counteract these aberrant processes and further enhance quality of life for people with CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene M A Glasgow
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Ensinck MM, Carlon MS. One Size Does Not Fit All: The Past, Present and Future of Cystic Fibrosis Causal Therapies. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121868. [PMID: 35740997 PMCID: PMC9220995 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common monogenic disorder, caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Over the last 30 years, tremendous progress has been made in understanding the molecular basis of CF and the development of treatments that target the underlying defects in CF. Currently, a highly effective CFTR modulator treatment (Kalydeco™/Trikafta™) is available for 90% of people with CF. In this review, we will give an extensive overview of past and ongoing efforts in the development of therapies targeting the molecular defects in CF. We will discuss strategies targeting the CFTR protein (i.e., CFTR modulators such as correctors and potentiators), its cellular environment (i.e., proteostasis modulation, stabilization at the plasma membrane), the CFTR mRNA (i.e., amplifiers, nonsense mediated mRNA decay suppressors, translational readthrough inducing drugs) or the CFTR gene (gene therapies). Finally, we will focus on how these efforts can be applied to the 15% of people with CF for whom no causal therapy is available yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein M. Ensinck
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Flanders, Belgium;
| | - Marianne S. Carlon
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Flanders, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery (BREATHE), Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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11
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Iyer DN, Foo DCC, Lo OSH, Wan TMH, Li X, Sin RWY, Pang RWC, Law WL, Ng L. MiR-509-3p is oncogenic, targets the tumor suppressor PHLPP2, and functions as a novel tumor adjacent normal tissue based prognostic biomarker in colorectal cancer. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:351. [PMID: 35361144 PMCID: PMC8969217 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-09075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently the role of microRNAs has been explored immensely as novel regulators and potential biomarkers in several cancers. MiR-509-3p is one such miRNA that has been observed to show a mixed expression in different cancers, while it’s expression and clinical relevance in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not yet been characterized. Methods We used quantitative PCR to evaluate the expression of miR-509-3p in fresh-frozen CRC tumor tissues and the corresponding tumor-adjacent normal (NAT) tissues from 103 patients. Subsequently, functional studies were performed to further interpret the role of the miRNA in CRC. Results MiR-509-3p was found to be overexpressed in CRC tissues in nearly 80% of cases and was associated with an aggressive disease presentation. Notably, a higher expression of the miRNA promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells in in vitro and in vivo models. Mechanistically, we confirmed that miR-509-3p directly binds the 3’UTR of the tumor suppressor PHLPP2 and inhibits its expression. Furthermore, within the previous 103 clinical tissue specimens, we observed an overexpression of miR-509-3p within the NAT tissue of patients associated with a poor disease prognosis. Using multivariate analysis, it was observed that the expression of miR-509-3p within the NAT tissue was an independent predictor of prognosis in CRC. At the cellular level, through indirect coculture experiments, miR-509-3p was observed to regulate the proliferative, migratory, and invasive behavior of normal colon cells. Conclusion MiR-509-3p strongly contributes to the development and progression of CRC and can potentially function as a prognostic biomarker in the disease. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-09075-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Narayanan Iyer
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dominic Chi-Chung Foo
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Oswens Siu-Hung Lo
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Timothy Ming-Hun Wan
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ryan Wai-Yan Sin
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Roberta Wen-Chi Pang
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai-Lun Law
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lui Ng
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Uhl FE, Vanherle L, Matthes F, Meissner A. Therapeutic CFTR Correction Normalizes Systemic and Lung-Specific S1P Level Alterations Associated with Heart Failure. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:866. [PMID: 35055052 PMCID: PMC8777932 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is among the main causes of death worldwide. Alterations of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling have been linked to HF as well as to target organ damage that is often associated with HF. S1P's availability is controlled by the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR), which acts as a critical bottleneck for intracellular S1P degradation. HF induces CFTR downregulation in cells, tissues and organs, including the lung. Whether CFTR alterations during HF also affect systemic and tissue-specific S1P concentrations has not been investigated. Here, we set out to study the relationship between S1P and CFTR expression in the HF lung. Mice with HF, induced by myocardial infarction, were treated with the CFTR corrector compound C18 starting ten weeks post-myocardial infarction for two consecutive weeks. CFTR expression, S1P concentrations, and immune cell frequencies were determined in vehicle- and C18-treated HF mice and sham controls using Western blotting, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, and qPCR. HF led to decreased pulmonary CFTR expression, which was accompanied by elevated S1P concentrations and a pro-inflammatory state in the lungs. Systemically, HF associated with higher S1P plasma levels compared to sham-operated controls and presented with higher S1P receptor 1-positive immune cells in the spleen. CFTR correction with C18 attenuated the HF-associated alterations in pulmonary CFTR expression and, hence, led to lower pulmonary S1P levels, which was accompanied by reduced lung inflammation. Collectively, these data suggest an important role for the CFTR-S1P axis in HF-mediated systemic and pulmonary inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska E. Uhl
- Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden; (F.E.U.); (L.V.); (F.M.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lotte Vanherle
- Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden; (F.E.U.); (L.V.); (F.M.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Frank Matthes
- Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden; (F.E.U.); (L.V.); (F.M.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Anja Meissner
- Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden; (F.E.U.); (L.V.); (F.M.)
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden
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13
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Catellani C, Cirillo F, Graziano S, Montanini L, Marmiroli N, Gullì M, Street ME. MicroRNA global profiling in cystic fibrosis cell lines reveals dysregulated pathways related with inflammation, cancer, growth, glucose and lipid metabolism, and fertility: an exploratory study. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2022; 93:e2022133. [PMID: 35775757 PMCID: PMC9335447 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93i3.12842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Cystic fibrosis (CF), is due to CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) loss of function, and is associated with comorbidities. The increasing longevity of CF patients has been associated with increased cancer risk besides the other known comorbidities. The significant heterogeneity among patients, suggests potential epigenetic regulation. Little attention has been given to how CFTR influences microRNA (miRNA) expression and how this may impact on biological processes and pathways. METHODS We assessed the changes in miRNAs and subsequently identified the affected molecular pathways using CFBE41o-, and IB3 human immortalized cell lines since they reflect the most common genetic mutations in CF patients, and 16HBE14o- cells were used as controls. RESULTS In the CF cell lines, 41 miRNAs showed significant changes (FC (log2) ≥ +2 or FC (log2) ≤ -2 and p-value≤0.05). Gene target analysis evidenced 511 validated miRNA target genes. Gene Ontology analysis evidenced cancer, inflammation, body growth, glucose, and lipid metabolism as the biological processes most impacted by these miRNAs. Protein-protein interaction and pathway analysis highlighted 50 significantly enriched pathways among which RAS, TGF beta, JAK/STAT and insulin signaling. CONCLUSIONS CFTR loss of function is associated with changes in the miRNA network, which regulates genes involved in the major comorbidities that affect CF patients suggesting that further research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Catellani
- Department of Mother and Child, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy, PhD Program in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy, These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Mother and Child, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy, These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Sara Graziano
- Interdepartmental Center SITEIA.PARMA, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luisa Montanini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Nelson Marmiroli
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mariolina Gullì
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences, and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria E. Street
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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14
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Simões FB, Kmit A, Amaral MD. Cross-talk of inflammatory mediators and airway epithelium reveals the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator as a major target. ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00247-2021. [PMID: 34912883 PMCID: PMC8666577 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00247-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway inflammation, mucus hyperproduction and epithelial remodelling are hallmarks of many chronic airway diseases, including asthma, COPD and cystic fibrosis. While several cytokines are dysregulated in these diseases, most studies focus on the response of airways to interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, which have been shown to induce mucus hyperproduction and shift the airway epithelium towards a hypersecretory phenotype. We hypothesised that other cytokines might induce the expression of chloride (Cl-) channels/transporters, and regulate epithelial differentiation and mucus production. To this end, fully differentiated human airway basal cells (BCi-NS1.1) were treated with cytokines identified as dysregulated in those diseases, namely IL-8, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-17A, IL-10 and IL-22, and tumour necrosis factor-α. Our results show that the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is the main Cl- channel modulated by inflammation, in contrast to transmembrane protein 16A (TMEM16A), whose levels only changed with IL-4. Furthermore, we identified novel roles for IL-10 and IL-22 by influencing epithelial differentiation towards ciliated cells and away from pulmonary ionocytes. In contrast, IL-1β and IL-4 reduced the number of ciliated cells while increasing club cells. Interestingly, while IL-1β, IL-4 and IL-10 upregulated CFTR expression, IL-4 was the only cytokine that increased both its function and the number of CFTR-expressing club cells, suggesting that this cell type may be the main contributor for CFTR function. Additionally, all cytokines assessed increased mucus production through a differential upregulation of MUC5AC and MUC5B transcript levels. This study reveals a novel insight into differentiation resulting from the cross-talk of inflammatory mediators and airway epithelial cells, which is particularly relevant for chronic airway diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa B Simões
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, BioISI - Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Arthur Kmit
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, BioISI - Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Margarida D Amaral
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, BioISI - Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Lisbon, Portugal
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15
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Farinha CM, Gentzsch M. Revisiting CFTR Interactions: Old Partners and New Players. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13196. [PMID: 34947992 PMCID: PMC8703571 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Remarkable progress in CFTR research has led to the therapeutic development of modulators that rescue the basic defect in cystic fibrosis. There is continuous interest in studying CFTR molecular disease mechanisms as not all cystic fibrosis patients have a therapeutic option available. Addressing the basis of the problem by comprehensively understanding the critical molecular associations of CFTR interactions remains key. With the availability of CFTR modulators, there is interest in comprehending which interactions are critical to rescue CFTR and which are altered by modulators or CFTR mutations. Here, the current knowledge on interactions that govern CFTR folding, processing, and stability is summarized. Furthermore, we describe protein complexes and signal pathways that modulate the CFTR function. Primary epithelial cells display a spatial control of the CFTR interactions and have become a common system for preclinical and personalized medicine studies. Strikingly, the novel roles of CFTR in development and differentiation have been recently uncovered and it has been revealed that specific CFTR gene interactions also play an important role in transcriptional regulation. For a comprehensive understanding of the molecular environment of CFTR, it is important to consider CFTR mutation-dependent interactions as well as factors affecting the CFTR interactome on the cell type, tissue-specific, and transcriptional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos M. Farinha
- BioISI—Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Martina Gentzsch
- Marsico Lung Institute and Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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16
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Soni DK, Biswas R. Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Lung Diseases. Front Genet 2021; 12:767348. [PMID: 34819948 PMCID: PMC8606426 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.767348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), notably microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), have recently gained increasing consideration because of their versatile role as key regulators of gene expression. They adopt diverse mechanisms to regulate transcription and translation, and thereby, the function of the protein, which is associated with several major biological processes. For example, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolic pathways demand fine-tuning for the precise development of a specific tissue or organ. The deregulation of ncRNA expression is concomitant with multiple diseases, including lung diseases. This review highlights recent advances in the post-transcriptional regulation of miRNAs and lncRNAs in lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Further, we also discuss the emerging role of ncRNAs as biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets for lung diseases. However, more investigations are required to explore miRNAs and lncRNAs interaction, and their function in the regulation of mRNA expression. Understanding these mechanisms might lead to early diagnosis and the development of novel therapeutics for lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmendra Kumar Soni
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Roopa Biswas
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Ning J, Du H, Zhang Y, Liu Q, Jiang T, Pang Y, Tian X, Yan L, Niu Y, Zhang R. N6-methyladenosine modification of CDH1 mRNA promotes PM2.5-induced pulmonary fibrosis via mediating epithelial mesenchymal transition. Toxicol Sci 2021; 185:143-157. [PMID: 34735003 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between ambient airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and respiratory diseases has been investigated in epidemiological studies. To explore the potential mechanism of PM2.5-induced pulmonary fibrosis, sixty mice were divided into 3 groups to expose to different levels of PM2.5 for 8 and 16 weeks: filtered air (FA), unfiltered air (UA) and concentrated PM2.5 air (CA), respectively. BEAS-2B cells were treated with 0, 25, 50 and 100 μg/ml PM2.5 for 24 h. The biomarkers of pulmonary fibrosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and metabolism of mRNAs were detected to characterize the effect of PM2.5 exposure. The results illustrated that PM2.5 exposure induced pathological alteration and pulmonary fibrosis in mice. The expression of E-cadherin (E-cad) was decreased whereas vimentin and N-cadherin (N-cad) expression were increased in a dose- and time-dependent manner after PM2.5 exposure. Mechanistically, PM2.5 exposure increased the levels of METTL3-mediated m6A modification of CDH1 mRNA. As a target gene of miR-494-3p, YTHDF2 was up-regulated by miR-494-3p down-regulation and then recognized m6A-modified CDH1 mRNA to inhibit the E-cad expression, consequently induced the EMT progression after PM2.5 exposure. Our study indicated that PM2.5 exposure triggered EMT progression to promote the pulmonary fibrosis via miR-494-3p/YTHDF2 recognized and METTL3 mediated m6A modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ning
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Hairong Du
- Guangming District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518016, China Guangdong PR
| | - Yaling Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Qingping Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Yaxian Pang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Xiaochen Tian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050011, PR China
| | - Liqun Yan
- Departments of Radiology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, PR, 050000, China
| | - Yujie Niu
- Department of Occupation Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
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18
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Dutta RK, Chinnapaiyan S, Santiago MJ, Rahman I, Unwalla HJ. Gene-specific MicroRNA antagonism protects against HIV Tat and TGF-β-mediated suppression of CFTR mRNA and function. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 142:112090. [PMID: 34463266 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs play an important role in health and disease. TGF-β signaling, upregulated by HIV Tat, and in chronic airway diseases and smokers upregulates miR-145-5p to suppress cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CFTR suppression in chronic airway diseases like Cystic Fibrosis, COPD and smokers has been associated with suppressed MCC and recurrent lung infections and inflammation. This can explain the emergence of recurrent lung infections and inflammation in people living with HIV. METHODS Tat-induced aberrant microRNAome was identified by miRNA expression analysis. microRNA mimics and antagomirs were used to validate the identified miRNAs involved in Tat mediated CFTR mRNA suppression. CRISPR-based editing of the miRNA target sites in CFTR 3'UTR was used to determine rescue of CFTR mRNA and function in airway epithelial cell lines and in primary human bronchial epithelial cells exposed to TGF-β and Tat. FINDINGS HIV Tat upregulates miR-145-5p and miR-509-3p. The two miRNAs demonstrate co-operative effects in suppressing CFTR. CRISPR-based editing of the miRNA target site preserves CFTR mRNA and function in airway epithelial cells INTERPRETATION: Given the important roles of TGF-β signaling and the multitude of genes regulated by miRNAs, we demonstrate that CRISPR-based gene-specific microRNA antagonism approach can preserve CFTR mRNA and function in the context of HIV Tat and TGF-β signaling without suppressing expression of other genes regulated by miR-145-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Dutta
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - S Chinnapaiyan
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - M J Santiago
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - I Rahman
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Departments of Environmental Medicine and Pulmonary Medicine, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - H J Unwalla
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
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19
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Gasparello J, Fabbri E, Gambari R, Finotti A. Differential effects on the miRNome of the treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with peptide-nucleic acids (PNAs) targeting microRNAs miR-101-3p and miR-145-5p: Next generation sequencing datasets. Data Brief 2021; 35:106718. [PMID: 33553515 PMCID: PMC7846929 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2021.106718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the demonstration that microRNAs are deeply involved in the regulation of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene, a great attention has been dedicated to possible alteration of the CFTR gene expression by targeting miRNAs causing down-regulation of CFTR and CFTR-associated proteins. The data here presented are related to previously published studies on the effects of treatment of human bronchial cells of PNAs targeting miR-101-3p and miR-145-5p (microRNAs shown to regulate the CFTR mRNA). These data here presented are relative to two companion articles "Treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with a Peptide-Nucleic Acid (PNA) targeting the microRNA miR-101-3p is associated with increased expression of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene" (published in European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2020) and "Peptide Nucleic Acids for MicroRNA Targeting" (published in Methods in Molecular Biology, 2020). The data obtained indicate that, while the expression of most microRNAs is not affected by PNA treatment, some of them are strongly modulated. In particular, some microRNAs involved in CF and/or CFTR regulation are co-inhibited by miR-101-3p and miR-145-5p. Among them, miR-155-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-132-3p and miR-6873-3p. This has been demonstrated by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) followed by RT-qPCR and RT-ddPCR validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Corresponding author at: Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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20
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Maule G, Ensinck M, Bulcaen M, Carlon MS. Rewriting CFTR to cure cystic fibrosis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 182:185-224. [PMID: 34175042 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive monogenic disease caused by mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene. Although F508del is the most frequent mutation, there are in total 360 confirmed disease-causing CFTR mutations, impairing CFTR production, function and stability. Currently, the only causal treatments available are CFTR correctors and potentiators that directly target the mutant protein. While these pharmacological advances and better symptomatic care have improved life expectancy of people with CF, none of these treatments provides a cure. The discovery and development of programmable nucleases, in particular CRISPR nucleases and derived systems, rekindled the field of CF gene therapy, offering the possibility of a permanent correction of the CFTR gene. In this review we will discuss different strategies to restore CFTR function via gene editing correction of CFTR mutations or enhanced CFTR expression, and address how best to deliver these treatments to target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Maule
- Department CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Trento, Italy
| | - Marjolein Ensinck
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Mattijs Bulcaen
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Marianne S Carlon
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.
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21
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Tamanini A, Fabbri E, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. A Peptide-Nucleic Acid Targeting miR-335-5p Enhances Expression of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ( CFTR) Gene with the Possible Involvement of the CFTR Scaffolding Protein NHERF1. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020117. [PMID: 33530577 PMCID: PMC7911309 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Up-regulation of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator gene (CFTR) might be of great relevance for the development of therapeutic protocols for cystic fibrosis (CF). MicroRNAs are deeply involved in the regulation of CFTR and scaffolding proteins (such as NHERF1, NHERF2 and Ezrin). (2) Methods: Content of miRNAs and mRNAs was analyzed by RT-qPCR, while the CFTR and NHERF1 production was analyzed by Western blotting. (3) Results: The results here described show that the CFTR scaffolding protein NHERF1 can be up-regulated in bronchial epithelial Calu-3 cells by a peptide-nucleic acid (PNA) targeting miR-335-5p, predicted to bind to the 3′-UTR sequence of the NHERF1 mRNA. Treatment of Calu-3 cells with this PNA (R8-PNA-a335) causes also up-regulation of CFTR. (4) Conclusions: We propose miR-335-5p targeting as a strategy to increase CFTR. While the efficiency of PNA-based targeting of miR-335-5p should be verified as a therapeutic strategy in CF caused by stop-codon mutation of the CFTR gene, this approach might give appreciable results in CF cells carrying other mutations impairing the processing or stability of CFTR protein, supporting its application in personalized therapy for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tamanini
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University-Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (A.T.); (S.M.)
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy; (T.J.); (A.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy; (T.J.); (A.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy; (T.J.); (A.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Silvia Munari
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University-Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (A.T.); (S.M.)
| | - Maria Cristina Dechecchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy;
| | - Giulio Cabrini
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy;
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-974443
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22
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Abstract
The involvement of microRNAs in human pathologies is firmly established. Accordingly, the pharmacological modulation of microRNA activity appears to be a very interesting approach in the development of new types of drugs (miRNA therapeutics). One important research area is the possible development of miRNA therapeutics in the field of rare diseases. In this respect, appealing molecules are based on peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), displaying, in their first description, a pseudo-peptide backbone composed of N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine units, and found to be excellent candidates for antisense and antigene therapies. The aim of the present article is to describe methods for determining the activity of PNAs designed to target microRNAs involved in cystic fibrosis, using as model system miR-145-5p and its target cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mRNA. The methods employed to study the effects of PNAs targeting miR-145-5p are presented here by discussing data obtained using as cellular model system the human lung epithelial Calu-3 cell line.
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A bird eye view on cystic fibrosis: An underestimated multifaceted chronic disorder. Life Sci 2020; 268:118959. [PMID: 33383045 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease which involves the mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. CF involves in the inflammatory processes and is considered as a multisystem disorder that is not confined to lungs, but it also affects other vital organs that leads to numerous co-morbidities. The respiratory disorder in the CF results in mortality and morbidity which is characterized by series of serious events involving mucus hypersecretion, microbial infections, airways obstruction, inflammation, destruction of epithelium, tissue remodeling and terminal lung diseases. Mucins are the high molecular weight glycoproteins important for the viscoelastic properties of the mucus, play a significant role in the disease mechanisms. Determining the functional association between the CFTR and mucins might help to identify the putative target for specific therapeutic approach. In fact, furin enzyme which helps in the entry of novel COVID-19 virus into the cell, is upregulated in CF and this can also serve as a potential target for CF treatment. Moreover, the use of nano-formulations for CF treatment is an area of research being widely studied as they have also demonstrated promising outcomes. The in-depth knowledge of non-coding RNAs like miRNAs and lncRNAs and their functional association with CFTR gene expression and mutation can provide a different range of opportunity to identify the promising therapeutic approaches for CF.
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24
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De Palma FDE, Raia V, Kroemer G, Maiuri MC. The Multifaceted Roles of MicroRNAs in Cystic Fibrosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E1102. [PMID: 33348555 PMCID: PMC7765910 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a lifelong disorder affecting 1 in 3500 live births worldwide. It is a monogenetic autosomal recessive disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding the chloride channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), the impairment of which leads to ionic disequilibria in exocrine organs. This translates into a chronic multisystemic disease characterized by airway obstruction, respiratory infections, and pancreatic insufficiency as well as hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Molecular characterization of the mutational heterogeneity of CFTR (affected by more than 2000 variants) improved the understanding and management of CF. However, these CFTR variants are linked to different clinical manifestations and phenotypes, and they affect response to treatments. Expanding evidence suggests that multisystemic disease affects CF pathology via impairing either CFTR or proteins regulated by CFTR. Thus, altering the expression of miRNAs in vivo could constitute an appealing strategy for developing new CF therapies. In this review, we will first describe the pathophysiology and clinical management of CF. Then, we will summarize the current knowledge on altered miRNAs in CF patients, with a focus on the miRNAs involved in the deregulation of CFTR and in the modulation of inflammation. We will highlight recent findings on the potential utility of measuring circulating miRNAs in CF as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers. Finally, we will provide an overview on potential miRNA-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Domenica Elisa De Palma
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Raia
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Regional Cystic Fibrosis Center, Federico II University Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
- Suzhou Institute for Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, 75015 Paris, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Maria Chiara Maiuri
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
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25
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Pommier A, Varilh J, Bleuse S, Delétang K, Bonini J, Bergougnoux A, Brochiero E, Koenig M, Claustres M, Taulan-Cadars M. miRNA repertoires of cystic fibrosis ex vivo models highlight miR-181a and miR-101 that regulate WISP1 expression. J Pathol 2020; 253:186-197. [PMID: 33095908 DOI: 10.1002/path.5571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder, is characterized by chronic lung disease. Small non-coding RNAs are key regulators of gene expression and participate in various processes, which are dysregulated in CF; however, they remain poorly studied. Here, we determined the complete microRNAs (miRNAs) expression pattern in three CF ex vivo models. The miRNA profiles of air-liquid interface cultures of airway epithelia (bronchi, nasal cells, and nasal polyps) samples from patients with CF and non-CF controls were obtained by deep sequencing. Compared with non-CF controls, several miRNAs were deregulated in CF samples; for instance, miR-181a-5p and the miR-449 family were upregulated. Moreover, mature miRNAs often showed variations (i.e. isomiRs) relative to their reference sequence, such as miR-101, suggesting that miRNAs consist of heterogeneous repertoires of multiple isoforms with different effects on gene expression. Analysis of miR-181a-5p and miR-101-3p roles indicated that they regulate the expression of WISP1, a key component of cell proliferation/migration programs. We showed that miR-101 and miR-181a-5p participated in aberrant recapitulation of wound healing programs by controlling WISP1 mRNA and protein level. Our miRNA expression data bring new insights into CF physiopathology and define new potential therapeutic targets in CF. © 2020 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pommier
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Jessica Varilh
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Solenne Bleuse
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Karine Delétang
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Jennifer Bonini
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Anne Bergougnoux
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France.,CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuelle Brochiero
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Michel Koenig
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France.,CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Mireille Claustres
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Magali Taulan-Cadars
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
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26
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Moaaz M, Lotfy H, Elsherbini B, Motawea MA, Fadali G. TGF-β Enhances the Anti-inflammatory Effect of Tumor- Infiltrating CD33+11b+HLA-DR Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Gastric Cancer: A Possible Relation to MicroRNA-494. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2020; 21:3393-3403. [PMID: 33247701 PMCID: PMC8033108 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2020.21.11.3393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) constitutes a key mechanism of tumor immune evasion in gastric cancer (GC). Therefore, searching for more accurate prognostic factors affecting their immunosuppressive role has become a growing interest in cancer immunotherapy research. Increased expression of microRNA-494 was noticed in MDSCs from tumor-bearing mice, suggesting another new therapeutic objective for cancer treatment. It was also discovered that tumor-derived transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is responsible for the up-regulation of microRNA-494 in MDSCs. The purpose of this study was to address the effect of recombinant (rTGF-β) on the anti-inflammatory activity of MDSCs in GC and its possible association with micro-RNA-494 expression in tumor tissue. METHODS Freshly obtained GC tumor tissue samples and peripheral blood were used for isolation of CD33+11b+HLADR- MDSCs cells from 40 GC patients and 31 corresponding controls using flow cytometry. MDSCs were co-cultured with isolated autologous T cells to assess proliferation and cytokine production in the presence and absence of rTGF-β. Real-time PCR and Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay were used to evaluate tumor expression of miRNA-494 and TGF-β respectively. RESULTS Results showed that rTGF-β markedly increased the suppressive ability of tumor MDSCs on proliferation of autologous T cells and interferon gamma production. However, no inhibitory effect was observed for MDSCs from circulation. In addition, infiltration of MDSCs in tumors is associated with the prognosis of GC. MiRNA-494 was also extensively expressed in tumor samples with a significant correlation to MDSCs. CONCLUSION These results indicate that tumor-derived MDSCs but not circulatory MDSCs have an immunosuppressive effect on T cells, potentially involving TGF-β mediated stimulation. Results also suggest a role for miRNA-494 in GC progression. Therefore, control of TGF-β and miRNA-494 may be used as a treatment strategy to downregulate the immunosuppressive effect of MDSCs. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Moaaz
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Hassan Lotfy
- Department of Surgery, Vascular Surgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Bassem Elsherbini
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A. Motawea
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Geylan Fadali
- Department of Pathology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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27
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Fonseca C, Bicker J, Alves G, Falcão A, Fortuna A. Cystic fibrosis: Physiopathology and the latest pharmacological treatments. Pharmacol Res 2020; 162:105267. [PMID: 33127556 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a lethal autosomal recessive genetic disease, caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene (CFTR), which primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. This gene encodes the CFTR protein, a distinctive membrane transporter of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily. It functions as a chloride channel, allowing the balance and transport of chloride through the apical membrane of epithelial cells. Due to its ubiquitous location, mutations in the CFTR gene trigger multiple changes in ion transport and metabolic pathways, affecting various organs, as it will be herein explained. Pulmonary impairment is the most characteristic comorbidity of CF and respiratory failure is the main cause of death. This review presents the importance of an early diagnosis of CF to establish, as soon as possible, a primary therapy for symptomatic prevention and relief. It also mentions new therapeutic approaches that include CFTR modulators. They are correctors and/or potentiators of the deficient CFTR channel. In an attempt to overcome the disadvantages of CFTR modulators, the application of biotechnology techniques is addressed, such as gene therapy, gene editing, RNA therapy and therapeutic microRNAs. The potential of the intranasal administration route is another presented aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Fonseca
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Bicker
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gilberto Alves
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Fortuna
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal.
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28
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Fabbri E, Tamanini A, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. Treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with a peptide-nucleic acid (PNA) targeting the microRNA miR-101-3p is associated with increased expression of the cystic fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator () gene. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 209:112876. [PMID: 33127171 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in the regulation of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene, miRNAs known to down-regulate the expression of the CFTR and associated proteins have been investigated as potential therapeutic targets. Here we show that miR-101-3p, targeting the 3'-UTR sequence of the CFTR mRNA, can be selectively inhibited by a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) carrying a full complementary sequence. With respect to clinical relevance of microRNA targeting, it is expected that reduction in concentration of miRNAs (the anti-miRNA approach) could be associated with increasing amounts of target mRNAs. Consistently to this hypothesis, we report that PNA-mediated inhibition of miR-101-3p was accompanied by CFTR up-regulation. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) was performed in order to verify the effects of the anti-miR-101-3p PNA on the Calu-3 miRNome. Upon inhibition of miR-101-3p we observed a fold change (FC) expression <2 of the majority of miRNAs (403/479, 84.13%), whereas we identified a list of dysregulated miRNAs, suggesting that specific miRNA inhibition (in our case miR-101-3p) might be accompanied by alteration of expression of other miRNAs, some of them known to be involved in Cystic Fibrosis (CF), such as miR-155-5p and miR-125b-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Tamanini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University Hospital of Verona, Italy
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy; Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, University of Ghent, Belgium
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Munari
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University Hospital of Verona, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Cabrini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; Research Center for Innovative Therapies of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Research Center for Innovative Therapies of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Italy.
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29
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Rezaei S, Mahjoubin-Tehran M, Aghaee-Bakhtiari SH, Jalili A, Movahedpour A, Khan H, Moghoofei M, Shojaei Z, R Hamblin M, Mirzaei H. Autophagy-related MicroRNAs in chronic lung diseases and lung cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 153:103063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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30
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The Role of MicroRNA in the Airway Surface Liquid Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113848. [PMID: 32481719 PMCID: PMC7312818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucociliary clearance, mediated by a coordinated function of cilia bathing in the airway surface liquid (ASL) on the surface of airway epithelium, protects the host from inhaled pathogens and is an essential component of the innate immunity. ASL is composed of the superficial mucus layer and the deeper periciliary liquid. Ion channels, transporters, and pumps coordinate the transcellular and paracellular movement of ions and water to maintain the ASL volume and mucus hydration. microRNA (miRNA) is a class of non-coding, short single-stranded RNA regulating gene expression by post-transcriptional mechanisms. miRNAs have been increasingly recognized as essential regulators of ion channels and transporters responsible for ASL homeostasis. miRNAs also influence the airway host defense. We summarize the most up-to-date information on the role of miRNAs in ASL homeostasis and host-pathogen interactions in the airway and discuss concepts for miRNA-directed therapy.
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31
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Bene Z, Fejes Z, Macek M, Amaral MD, Balogh I, Nagy B. Laboratory biomarkers for lung disease severity and progression in cystic fibrosis. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 508:277-286. [PMID: 32428503 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Although the clinical outcomes of cystic fibrosis (CF) have been markedly improved through the recent implementation of novel CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drugs, robust and reliable biomarkers are still demanded for the early detection of CF lung disease progression, monitoring treatment efficacy and predicting life-threatening clinical complications. Thus, there is an unmet need to identify and validate novel, ideally blood based biomarkers with strong correlations to the severity of CF lung disease, which represents a major contribution to overall CF morbidity and mortality. In this review, we aim to summarize the utility of thus far studied blood-, sputum- and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)-based biomarkers to evaluate inflammatory conditions in the lung and to follow treatment efficacy in CF. Measurements of sweat chloride concentrations and the spirometric parameter FEV1 are currently utilized to monitor CFTR function and the effect of various CF therapies. Nonetheless, both have inherent pitfalls and limitations, thus routinely analyzed biomarkers in blood, sputum or BAL samples are required as surrogates for lung disorders. Recent discovery of new protein (e.g. HE4) and RNA-based biomarkers, such as microRNAs may offer a higher efficacy, which in aggregate may be valuable to evaluate disease prognosis and to substantiate CF drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Bene
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Fejes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Milan Macek
- Department of Biology and Medical Genetics, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Margarida D Amaral
- University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - István Balogh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Béla Nagy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
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32
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A Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) Masking the miR-145-5p Binding Site of the 3'UTR of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ( CFTR) mRNA Enhances CFTR Expression in Calu-3 Cells. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25071677. [PMID: 32260566 PMCID: PMC7181265 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) have been demonstrated to be very useful tools for gene regulation at different levels and with different mechanisms of action. In the last few years the use of PNAs for targeting microRNAs (anti-miRNA PNAs) has provided impressive advancements. In particular, targeting of microRNAs involved in the repression of the expression of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which is defective in cystic fibrosis (CF), is a key step in the development of new types of treatment protocols. In addition to the anti-miRNA therapeutic strategy, inhibition of miRNA functions can be reached by masking the miRNA binding sites present within the 3′UTR region of the target mRNAs. The objective of this study was to design a PNA masking the binding site of the microRNA miR-145-5p present within the 3′UTR of the CFTR mRNA and to determine its activity in inhibiting miR-145-5p function, with particular focus on the expression of both CFTR mRNA and CFTR protein in Calu-3 cells. The results obtained support the concept that the PNA masking the miR-145-5p binding site of the CFTR mRNA is able to interfere with miR-145-5p biological functions, leading to both an increase of CFTR mRNA and CFTR protein content.
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33
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De Santi C, Fernández Fernández E, Gaul R, Vencken S, Glasgow A, Oglesby IK, Hurley K, Hawkins F, Mitash N, Mu F, Raoof R, Henshall DC, Cutrona MB, Simpson JC, Harvey BJ, Linnane B, McNally P, Cryan SA, MacLoughlin R, Swiatecka-Urban A, Greene CM. Precise Targeting of miRNA Sites Restores CFTR Activity in CF Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Mol Ther 2020; 28:1190-1199. [PMID: 32059764 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs that are overexpressed in cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchial epithelial cells (BEC) negatively regulate CFTR and nullify the beneficial effects of CFTR modulators. We hypothesized that it is possible to reverse microRNA-mediated inhibition of CFTR using CFTR-specific target site blockers (TSBs) and to develop a drug-device combination inhalation therapy for CF. Lead microRNA expression was quantified in a series of human CF and non-CF samples and in vitro models. A panel of CFTR 3' untranslated region (UTR)-specific locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotide TSBs was assessed for their ability to increase CFTR expression. Their effects on CFTR activity alone or in combination with CFTR modulators were measured in CF BEC models. TSB encapsulation in poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles was assessed as a proof of principle of delivery into CF BECs. TSBs targeting the CFTR 3' UTR 298-305:miR-145-5p or 166-173:miR-223-3p sites increased CFTR expression and anion channel activity and enhanced the effects of ivacaftor/lumacaftor or ivacaftor/tezacaftor in CF BECs. Biocompatible PLGA-TSB nanoparticles promoted CFTR expression in primary BECs and retained desirable biophysical characteristics following nebulization. Alone or in combination with CFTR modulators, aerosolized CFTR-targeting TSBs encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles could represent a promising drug-device combination therapy for the treatment for CFTR dysfunction in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | | | - Rachel Gaul
- School of Pharmacy and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Sebastian Vencken
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Arlene Glasgow
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Irene K Oglesby
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Killian Hurley
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Finn Hawkins
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center and Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Nilay Mitash
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Fangping Mu
- Center for Research Computing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Rana Raoof
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - David C Henshall
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Meritxell B Cutrona
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jeremy C Simpson
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Brian J Harvey
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Barry Linnane
- University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Paul McNally
- Department of Pediatrics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland; National Children's Research Centre, Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland
| | - Sally Ann Cryan
- School of Pharmacy and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | | | | | - Catherine M Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
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34
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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin-A Target for MicroRNA-Based Therapeutic Development for Cystic Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030836. [PMID: 32012925 PMCID: PMC7037267 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder arising from mutations to the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Disruption to normal ion homeostasis in the airway results in impaired mucociliary clearance, leaving the lung more vulnerable to recurrent and chronic bacterial infections. The CF lung endures an excess of neutrophilic inflammation, and whilst neutrophil serine proteases are a crucial part of the innate host defence to infection, a surplus of neutrophil elastase (NE) is understood to create a net destructive effect. Alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) is a key antiprotease in the control of NE protease activity but is ineffective in the CF lung due to the huge imbalance of NE levels. Therapeutic strategies to boost levels of protective antiproteases such as A1AT in the lung remain an attractive research strategy to limit the damage from excess protease activity. microRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that bind specific cognate sequences to inhibit expression of target mRNAs. The inhibition of miRNAs which target the SERPINA1 (A1AT-encoding gene) mRNA represents a novel therapeutic approach for CF inflammation. This could involve the delivery of antagomirs that bind and sequester the target miRNA, or target site blockers that bind miRNA recognition elements within the target mRNA to prevent miRNA interaction. Therefore, miRNA targeted therapies offer an alternative strategy to drive endogenous A1AT production and thus supplement the antiprotease shield of the CF lung.
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Dutta RK, Chinnapaiyan S, Unwalla H. Aberrant MicroRNAomics in Pulmonary Complications: Implications in Lung Health and Diseases. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 18:413-431. [PMID: 31655261 PMCID: PMC6831837 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the last few decades, evolutionarily conserved molecular networks have emerged as important regulators in the expression and function of eukaryotic genomes. Recently, miRNAs (miRNAs), a large family of small, non-coding regulatory RNAs were identified in these networks as regulators of endogenous genes by exerting post-transcriptional gene regulation activity in a broad range of eukaryotic species. Dysregulation of miRNA expression correlates with aberrant gene expression and can play an essential role in human health and disease. In the context of the lung, miRNAs have been implicated in organogenesis programming, such as proliferation, differentiation, and morphogenesis. Gain- or loss-of-function studies revealed their pivotal roles as regulators of disease development, potential therapeutic candidates/targets, and clinical biomarkers. An altered microRNAome has been attributed to several pulmonary diseases, such as asthma, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Considering the relevant roles and functions of miRNAs under physiological and pathological conditions, they may lead to the invention of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. This review will focus on recent advances in understanding the role of miRNAs in lung development, lung health, and diseases, while also exploring the progress and prospects of their application as therapeutic leads or as biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajib Kumar Dutta
- Department of Immunology and Nano-medicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Srinivasan Chinnapaiyan
- Department of Immunology and Nano-medicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Hoshang Unwalla
- Department of Immunology and Nano-medicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
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Luly FR, Lévêque M, Licursi V, Cimino G, Martin-Chouly C, Théret N, Negri R, Cavinato L, Ascenzioni F, Del Porto P. MiR-146a is over-expressed and controls IL-6 production in cystic fibrosis macrophages. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16259. [PMID: 31700158 PMCID: PMC6838115 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52770-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that is characterised by susceptibility to bacterial infections and chronic lung inflammation. Recently, it was suggested that macrophages contribute to impaired host defence and excessive inflammatory responses in CF. Indeed, dysfunction attributed to CF macrophages includes decreased bacterial killing and exaggerated inflammatory responses. However, the mechanisms behind such defects have only been partially defined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of several macrophage functions, including their activation, differentiation and polarisation. The goal of this study was to investigate whether miRNA dysregulation underlies the functional abnormalities of CF macrophages. MiRNA profiling of macrophages was performed, with 22 miRNAs identified as differentially expressed between CF and non-CF individuals. Among these, miR-146a was associated with significant enrichment of validated target genes involved in responses to microorganisms and inflammation. As miR-146a dysregulation has been reported in several human inflammatory diseases, we analysed the impact of increased miR-146a expression on inflammatory responses of CF macrophages. These data show that inhibition of miR-146a in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated CF macrophages results in increased interleukin-6 production, which suggests that miR-146a overexpression in CF is functional, to restrict inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco R Luly
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuella Lévêque
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Service de Dermatologie CHU de Poitiers, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Valerio Licursi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Corinne Martin-Chouly
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR S 1085, F-35000 University of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Théret
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR S 1085, F-35000 University of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Rodolfo Negri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Cavinato
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorentina Ascenzioni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Del Porto
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
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Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Selectively Recruits microRNAs to the RNA-Induced Silencing Complex and Degrades CFTR mRNA under Permissive Conditions in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194933. [PMID: 31590401 PMCID: PMC6801718 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene lead to cystic fibrosis (CF). The most common mutation F508del inhibits folding and processing of CFTR protein. FDA-approved correctors rescue the biosynthetic processing of F508del-CFTR protein, while potentiators improve the rescued CFTR channel function. Transforming growth factor (TGF-β1), overexpressed in many CF patients, blocks corrector/potentiator rescue by inhibiting CFTR mRNA in vitro. Increased TGF-β1 signaling and acquired CFTR dysfunction are present in other lung diseases. To study the mechanism of TGF-β1 repression of CFTR, we used molecular, biochemical, and functional approaches in primary human bronchial epithelial cells from over 50 donors. TGF-β1 destabilized CFTR mRNA in cells from lungs with chronic disease, including CF, and impaired F508del-CFTR rescue by new-generation correctors. TGF-β1 increased the active pool of selected micro(mi)RNAs validated as CFTR inhibitors, recruiting them to the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Expression of F508del-CFTR globally modulated TGF-β1-induced changes in the miRNA landscape, creating a permissive environment required for degradation of F508del-CFTR mRNA. In conclusion, TGF-β1 may impede the full benefit of corrector/potentiator therapy in CF patients. Studying miRNA recruitment to RISC under disease-specific conditions may help to better characterize the miRNAs utilized by TGF-β1 to destabilize CFTR mRNA.
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Finotti A, Fabbri E, Lampronti I, Gasparello J, Borgatti M, Gambari R. MicroRNAs and Long Non-coding RNAs in Genetic Diseases. Mol Diagn Ther 2019; 23:155-171. [PMID: 30610665 PMCID: PMC6469593 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery and classification of non-coding RNAs, their roles have gained great attention. In this respect, microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs have been firmly demonstrated to be linked to regulation of gene expression and onset of human diseases, including rare genetic diseases; therefore they are suitable targets for therapeutic intervention. This issue, in the context of rare genetic diseases, is being considered by an increasing number of research groups and is of key interest to the health community. In the case of rare genetic diseases, the possibility of developing personalized therapy in precision medicine has attracted the attention of researchers and clinicians involved in developing "orphan medicinal products" and proposing these to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Orphan Products Development (OOPD) in the United States. The major focuses of these activities are the evaluation and development of products (drugs, biologics, devices, or medical foods) considered to be promising for diagnosis and/or treatment of rare diseases or conditions, including rare genetic diseases. In an increasing number of rare genetic diseases, analysis of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs has been proven a promising strategy. These diseases include, but are not limited to, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, Rett syndrome, and β-thalassemia. In conclusion, a large number of approaches based on targeting microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs are expected in the field of molecular diagnosis and therapy, with a facilitated technological transfer in the case of rare genetic diseases, in virtue of the existing regulation concerning these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Stolzenburg LR, Harris A. The role of microRNAs in chronic respiratory disease: recent insights. Biol Chem 2018; 399:219-234. [PMID: 29148977 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2017-0249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Chronic respiratory diseases encompass a group of diverse conditions affecting the airways, which all impair lung function over time. They include cystic fibrosis (CF), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, which together affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs involved in post-transcriptional gene repression, are now recognized as major regulators in the development and progression of chronic lung disease. Alterations in miRNA abundance occur in lung tissue, inflammatory cells, and freely circulating in blood and are thought to function both as drivers and modifiers of disease. Their importance in lung pathology has prompted the development of miRNA-based therapies and biomarker tools. Here, we review the current literature on miRNA expression and function in chronic respiratory disease and highlight further research that is needed to propel miRNA treatments for lung disorders towards the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay R Stolzenburg
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ann Harris
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44016, USA
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Bardin P, Sonneville F, Corvol H, Tabary O. Emerging microRNA Therapeutic Approaches for Cystic Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1113. [PMID: 30349480 PMCID: PMC6186820 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and remains the most common life-shortening diseases affecting the exocrine organs. The absence of this channel results in an imbalance of ion concentrations across the cell membrane and results in more abnormal secretion and mucus plugging in the gastrointestinal tract and in the lungs of CF patients. The direct introduction of fully functional CFTR by gene therapy has long been pursued as a therapeutical option to restore CFTR function independent of the specific CFTR mutation, but the different clinical trials failed to propose persuasive evidence of this strategy. The last ten years has led to the development of new pharmacotherapies which can activate CFTR function in a mutation-specific manner. Although approximately 2,000 different disease-associated mutations have been identified, a single codon deletion, F508del, is by far the most common and is present on at least one allele in approximately 70% of the patients in CF populations. This strategy is limited by chemistry, the knowledge on CFTR and the heterogenicity of the patients. New research efforts in CF aim to develop other therapeutical approaches to combine different strategies. Targeting RNA appears as a new and an important opportunity to modulate dysregulated biological processes. Abnormal miRNA activity has been linked to numerous diseases, and over the last decade, the critical role of miRNA in regulating biological processes has fostered interest in how miRNA binds to and interacts explicitly with the target protein. Herein, this review describes the different strategies to identify dysregulated miRNA opens up a new concept and new opportunities to correct CFTR deficiency. This review describes therapeutic applications of antisense techniques currently under investigation in CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Bardin
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Florence Sonneville
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Harriet Corvol
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,Paediatric Respiratory Department, Hôpital Trousseau, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Tabary
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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Bardin P, Marchal-Duval E, Sonneville F, Blouquit-Laye S, Rousselet N, Le Rouzic P, Corvol H, Tabary O. Small RNA and transcriptome sequencing reveal the role of miR-199a-3p in inflammatory processes in cystic fibrosis airways. J Pathol 2018; 245:410-420. [DOI: 10.1002/path.5095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Bardin
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
| | - Emmeline Marchal-Duval
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
| | - Florence Sonneville
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
| | - Sabine Blouquit-Laye
- Université de Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines; UFR des Sciences de la Santé, UMR 1173; Montigny-Le-Bretonneux France
| | - Nathalie Rousselet
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
| | - Philippe Le Rouzic
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
| | - Harriet Corvol
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
- Hôpital Trousseau; Paediatric Respiratory Department, AP-HP; Paris France
| | - Olivier Tabary
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine (CRSA); Paris France
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Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are an abundant class of RNAs that include small ncRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and pseudogenes. The human ncRNA atlas includes thousands of these specialised RNA molecules that are further subcategorised based on their size or function. Two of the more well-known and widely studied ncRNA species are microRNAs (miRNAs) and lncRNAs. These are regulatory RNAs and their altered expression has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Failure to express a functional cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane receptor (CFTR) chloride ion channel in epithelial cells underpins CF. Secondary to the CFTR defect, it is known that other pathways can be altered and these may contribute to the pathophysiology of CF lung disease in particular. For example, quantitative alterations in expression of some ncRNAs are associated with CF. In recent years, there has been a series of published studies exploring ncRNA expression and function in CF. The majority have focussed principally on miRNAs, with just a handful of reports to date on lncRNAs. The present study reviews what is currently known about ncRNA expression and function in CF, and discusses the possibility of applying this knowledge to the clinical management of CF in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene M.A. Glasgow
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
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Abstract
La mucoviscidose est la plus fréquente des maladies génétiques dans les populations d’origine caucasienne, caractérisée par des mutations du gène codant le canal chlorure CFTR. Bien que ce gène soit connu depuis 1989, les solutions thérapeutiques curatives proposées aux patients restent limitées. De nouvelles stratégies thérapeutiques sont explorées, comme celles ciblant les microARN qui participent à la régulation de l’expression d’ARN messagers cibles. Cette revue fait le point sur les travaux portant sur l’implication de ces microARN dans la mucoviscidose, notamment dans le contrôle des canaux ioniques, de l’inflammation, de l’infection et de l’obstruction bronchique, et leurs potentiels thérapeutiques.
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Fernandez Fernandez E, De Santi C, De Rose V, Greene CM. CFTR dysfunction in cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Expert Rev Respir Med 2018; 12:483-492. [PMID: 29750581 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2018.1475235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obstructive lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are causes of high morbidity and mortality worldwide. CF is a multiorgan genetic disease caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and is characterized by progressive chronic obstructive lung disease. Most cases of COPD are a result of noxious particles, mainly cigarette smoke but also other environmental pollutants. Areas covered: Although the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of CF and COPD differ, they do share key phenotypic features and because of these similarities there is great interest in exploring common mechanisms and/or factors affected by CFTR mutations and environmental insults involved in COPD. Various molecular, cellular and clinical studies have confirmed that CFTR protein dysfunction is common in both the CF and COPD airways. This review provides an update of our understanding of the role of dysfunctional CFTR in both respiratory diseases. Expert commentary: Drugs developed for people with CF to improve mutant CFTR function and enhance CFTR ion channel activity might also be beneficial in patients with COPD. A move toward personalized therapy using, for example, microRNA modulators in conjunction with CFTR potentiators or correctors, could enhance treatment of both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fernandez Fernandez
- a Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology , RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin 9 , Ireland
| | - Chiara De Santi
- a Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology , RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin 9 , Ireland
| | - Virginia De Rose
- b Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences , University of Torino , Torino , Italy
| | - Catherine M Greene
- a Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology , RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital , Dublin 9 , Ireland
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Kang L, Yang C, Song Y, Zhao K, Liu W, Hua W, Wang K, Tu J, Li S, Yin H, Zhang Y. MicroRNA-494 promotes apoptosis and extracellular matrix degradation in degenerative human nucleus pulposus cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:27868-27881. [PMID: 28427186 PMCID: PMC5438614 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.15838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated the expression and function of the microRNA-494 in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). RESULTS MicroRNA-494 expression was upregulated during IDD progression; its overexpression increased the expression of ECM catabolic factors such as matrix metalloproteinase and A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motif in NP cells while decreasing that of anabolic genes such as type II collagen and aggrecan; it also induced the apoptosis of NP cells, as determined by flow cytometry. These effects were reversed by microRNA-494 inhibitor treatment. SOX9 was identified as a target of negative regulation by microRNA-494. Promoter hypomethylation and NF-κB activation were associated with microRNA-494 upregulation in IDD. MATERIALS AND METHODS MicroRNA-494 expression in degenerative nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. The effect of microRNA-494 on extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism and NP cell apoptosis was evaluated by transfection of microRNA-494 mimic or inhibitor. The regulation of SRY-related high mobility group box (SOX)9 expression by microRNA-494 was assessed with the luciferase reporter assay, and the methylation status of the microRNA-494 promoter was evaluated by methylation-specific PCR and bisulfite sequencing PCR. The role of activated nuclear factor (NF)-κB in the regulation of microRNA-494 expression was evaluated using specific inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS MicroRNA-494 promotes ECM degradation and apoptosis of degenerative human NP cells by directly targeting SOX9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Kang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Cao Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Kangcheng Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, First Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Wenbin Hua
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Ji Tu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Huipeng Yin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yukun Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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McNally P, Greene CM. Cystic fibrosis: a model for precision medicine. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2018.1444990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul McNally
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
- National Children’s Research Centre, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
- Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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De Santi C, Gadi S, Swiatecka-Urban A, Greene CM. Identification of a novel functional miR-143-5p recognition element in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator 3'UTR. AIMS GENETICS 2018; 5:53-62. [PMID: 31435512 PMCID: PMC6690249 DOI: 10.3934/genet.2018.1.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs involved in regulation of gene expression. They bind in a sequence-specific manner to miRNA recognition elements (MREs) located in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNAs and prevent mRNA translation. MiRNA expression is dysregulated in cystic fibrosis (CF), affecting several biological processes including ion conductance in the epithelial cells of the lung. We previously reported that miR-143 is up-regulated in CF bronchial brushings compared to non-CF. Here we identified two predicted binding sites for miR-143-5p (starting at residues 558 and 644) on the CFTR mRNA, and aimed to assess whether CFTR is a true molecular target of miR-143-5p. Expression of miR-143-5p was found to be up-regulated in a panel of CF vs non-CF cell lines (1.7-fold, P = 0.0165), and its levels were increased in vitro after 20 hours treatment with bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from CF patients compared to vehicle-treated cells (3.3-fold, P = 0.0319). Luciferase assays were performed to elucidate direct miRNA::target interactions and showed that miR-143-5p significantly decreased the reporter activity when carrying the wild-type full length sequence of CFTR 3'UTR (minus 15%, P = 0.005). This repression was rescued by the disruption of the first, but not the second, predicted MRE, suggesting that the residue starting at 558 was the actual active binding site. In conclusion, we here showed that miR-143-5p modestly but significantly inhibits CFTR, improving the knowledge on functional MREs within the CFTR 3'UTR. This could lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies where miRNA-mediated CFTR repression is blocked thereby possibly increasing the efficacy of the currently available CFTR modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Sucharitha Gadi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Agnieszka Swiatecka-Urban
- Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, RCSI Education & Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
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48
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Fernández Fernández E, Santos-Carballal B, de Santi C, Ramsey JM, MacLoughlin R, Cryan SA, Greene CM. Biopolymer-Based Nanoparticles for Cystic Fibrosis Lung Gene Therapy Studies. MATERIALS 2018; 11:ma11010122. [PMID: 29342838 PMCID: PMC5793620 DOI: 10.3390/ma11010122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Lung gene therapy for cystic fibrosis disease has not been successful due to several challenges such as the absence of an appropriate vector. Therefore, optimal delivery of emerging therapeutics to airway epithelial cells demands suitable non-viral systems. In this work, we describe the formulation and the physicochemical investigation of biocompatible and biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), including PLGA and chitosan (animal and non-animal), as novel methods for the safe and efficient delivery of CFTR-specific locked nucleic acids (LNAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fernández Fernández
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | | | - Chiara de Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | - Joanne M Ramsey
- School of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Ronan MacLoughlin
- School of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
- Aerogen Ltd., Galway Business Park, Dangan, Galway H91 HE94, Ireland.
| | - Sally-Ann Cryan
- School of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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49
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Gap Junctions Are Involved in the Rescue of CFTR-Dependent Chloride Efflux by Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Coculture with Cystic Fibrosis CFBE41o- Cells. Stem Cells Int 2018. [PMID: 29531530 PMCID: PMC5821953 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1203717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously found that human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) in coculture with CF immortalised airway epithelial cells (CFBE41o- line, CFBE) on Transwell® filters acquired an epithelial phenotype and led to the expression of a mature and functional CFTR protein. In order to explore the role of gap junction- (GJ-) mediated intercellular communication (GJIC) in this rescue, cocultures (hAMSC : CFBE, 1 : 5 ratio) were studied for the formation of GJIC, before and after silencing connexin 43 (Cx43), a major component of GJs. Functional GJs in cocultures were inhibited when the expression of the Cx43 protein was downregulated. Transfection of cocultures with siRNA against Cx43 resulted in the absence of specific CFTR signal on the apical membrane and reduction in the mature form of CFTR (band C), and in parallel, the CFTR-dependent chloride channel activity was significantly decreased. Cx43 downregulation determined also a decrease in transepithelial resistance and an increase in paracellular permeability as compared with control cocultures, implying that GJIC may regulate CFTR expression and function that in turn modulate airway epithelium tightness. These results indicate that GJIC is involved in the correction of CFTR chloride channel activity upon the acquisition of an epithelial phenotype by hAMSCs in coculture with CF cells.
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50
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Fabbri E, Tamanini A, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Sabbioni G, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. A Peptide Nucleic Acid against MicroRNA miR-145-5p Enhances the Expression of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) in Calu-3 Cells. Molecules 2017; 23:molecules23010071. [PMID: 29286300 PMCID: PMC6017273 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are very useful tools for gene regulation at different levels, but in particular in the last years their use for targeting microRNA (anti-miR PNAs) has provided impressive advancements. In this respect, microRNAs related to the repression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which is defective in cystic fibrosis, are of great importance in the development of new type of treatments. In this paper we propose the use of an anti-miR PNA for targeting miR-145, a microRNA reported to suppress CFTR expression. Octaarginine-anti-miR PNA conjugates were delivered to Calu-3 cells, exerting sequence dependent targeting of miR-145-5p. This allowed to enhance expression of the miR-145 regulated CFTR gene, analyzed at mRNA (RT-qPCR, Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) and CFTR protein (Western blotting) level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Anna Tamanini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, University-Hospital, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Sabbioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Silvia Munari
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, University-Hospital, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | | | - Giulio Cabrini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, University-Hospital, 37126 Verona, Italy.
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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