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Xu H, Huang K, Shi M, Gong H, Han M, Tian W, Wang X, Zhang D. MicroRNAs in Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric cancer: Function and clinical application. Pharmacol Res 2024; 205:107216. [PMID: 38761883 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and it is associated with a combination of genetic, environmental, and microbial risk factors. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is classified as a type I carcinogen, however, the exact regulatory mechanisms underlying H. pylori-induced GC are incompletely defined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), one of small non-coding RNAs, negatively regulate gene expression through binding to their target genes. Dysregulation of miRNAs is crucial in human cancer. A noteworthy quantity of aberrant miRNAs induced by H. pylori through complex regulatory networks have been identified. These miRNAs substantially affect genetic instability, cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, autophagy, chemoresistance, and the tumor microenvironment, leading to GC development and progression. Importantly, some H. pylori-associated miRNAs hold promise as therapeutic tools and biomarkers for GC prevention, diagnosis, and prognosis. Nonetheless, clinical application of miRNAs remains in its infancy with multiple issues, including sensitivity and specificity, stability, reliable delivery systems, and off-target effects. Additional research on the specific molecular mechanisms and more clinical data are still required. This review investigated the biogenesis, regulatory mechanisms, and functions of miRNAs in H. pylori-induced GC, offering novel insights into the potential clinical applications of miRNA-based therapeutics and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Ke Huang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Mingxuan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Dental Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Biological Intelligence Manufacturing, School of Stomatology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Hang Gong
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Mengyu Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Wenji Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- Department of Emergency, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China.
| | - Dekui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China; Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, The Second Hospital & Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China.
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2
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Hu Y, He Z, Han B, Lin Z, Zhou P, Li S, Huang S, Chen X. miR-107 Targets NSG1 to Regulate Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression through ERK Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5961. [PMID: 38892156 PMCID: PMC11172869 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) is a kind of malignant tumor with a poor prognosis and low quality of life in the otolaryngology department. It has been found that microRNA (miRNA) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of various tumors. This study found that the expression level of miRNA-107 (miR-107) in HSCC was significantly reduced. Subsequently, we screened out the downstream direct target gene Neuronal Vesicle Trafficking Associated 1 (NSG1) related to miR-107 through bioinformatics analysis and found that the expression of NSG1 was increased in HSCC tissues. Following the overexpression of miR-107 in HSCC cells, it was observed that miR-107 directly suppressed NSG1 expression, leading to increased apoptosis, decreased proliferation, and reduced invasion capabilities of HSCC cells. Subsequent experiments involving the overexpression and knockdown of NSG1 in HSCC cells demonstrated that elevated NSG1 levels enhanced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while the opposite effect was observed upon NSG1 knockdown. Further investigations revealed that changes in NSG1 levels in the HSCC cells were accompanied by alterations in ERK signaling pathway proteins, suggesting a potential regulatory role of NSG1 in HSCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through the ERK pathway. These findings highlight the significance of miR-107 and NSG1 in hypopharyngeal cancer metastasis, offering promising targets for therapeutic interventions and prognostic evaluations for HSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Zhizhen He
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Baoai Han
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Zehua Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Shuo Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
| | - Xiong Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (Y.H.)
- Sleep Medicine Centre, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
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3
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Lu H, Zhang J, Cao Y, Wu S, Wei Y, Yin R. Advances in applications of artificial intelligence algorithms for cancer-related miRNA research. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024; 53:231-243. [PMID: 38650448 PMCID: PMC11057993 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
MiRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs, which regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by partial complementary base pairing. Aberrant miRNA expressions have been reported in tumor tissues and peripheral blood of cancer patients. In recent years, artificial intelligence algorithms such as machine learning and deep learning have been widely used in bioinformatic research. Compared to traditional bioinformatic tools, miRNA target prediction tools based on artificial intelligence algorithms have higher accuracy, and can successfully predict subcellular localization and redistribution of miRNAs to deepen our understanding. Additionally, the construction of clinical models based on artificial intelligence algorithms could significantly improve the mining efficiency of miRNA used as biomarkers. In this article, we summarize recent development of bioinformatic miRNA tools based on artificial intelligence algorithms, focusing on the potential of machine learning and deep learning in cancer-related miRNA research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Jia Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yixin Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shuming Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuan Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Runting Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, China.
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4
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Kaurani L. Clinical Insights into MicroRNAs in Depression: Bridging Molecular Discoveries and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2866. [PMID: 38474112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052866] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Depression is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. The discovery of biomarkers for diagnosis or prediction of treatment responses and as therapeutic agents is a current priority. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of short RNA molecules in the etiology of depression. The most extensively researched of these are microRNAs, a major component of cellular gene regulation and function. MicroRNAs function in a temporal and tissue-specific manner to regulate and modify the post-transcriptional expression of target mRNAs. They can also be shuttled as cargo of extracellular vesicles between the brain and the blood, thus informing about relevant mechanisms in the CNS through the periphery. In fact, studies have already shown that microRNAs identified peripherally are dysregulated in the pathological phenotypes seen in depression. Our article aims to review the existing evidence on microRNA dysregulation in depression and to summarize and evaluate the growing body of evidence for the use of microRNAs as a target for diagnostics and RNA-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalit Kaurani
- Department for Epigenetics and Systems Medicine in Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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5
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Vaswani CM, Simone J, Pavelick JL, Wu X, Tan GW, Ektesabi AM, Gupta S, Tsoporis JN, Dos Santos CC. Tiny Guides, Big Impact: Focus on the Opportunities and Challenges of miR-Based Treatments for ARDS. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2812. [PMID: 38474059 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052812] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by lung inflammation and increased membrane permeability, which represents the leading cause of mortality in ICUs. Mechanical ventilation strategies are at the forefront of supportive approaches for ARDS. Recently, an increasing understanding of RNA biology, function, and regulation, as well as the success of RNA vaccines, has spurred enthusiasm for the emergence of novel RNA-based therapeutics. The most common types of RNA seen in development are silencing (si)RNAs, antisense oligonucleotide therapy (ASO), and messenger (m)RNAs that collectively account for 80% of the RNA therapeutics pipeline. These three RNA platforms are the most mature, with approved products and demonstrated commercial success. Most recently, miRNAs have emerged as pivotal regulators of gene expression. Their dysregulation in various clinical conditions offers insights into ARDS pathogenesis and offers the innovative possibility of using microRNAs as targeted therapy. This review synthesizes the current state of the literature to contextualize the therapeutic potential of miRNA modulation. It considers the potential for miR-based therapeutics as a nuanced approach that incorporates the complexity of ARDS pathophysiology and the multifaceted nature of miRNA interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirag M Vaswani
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Julia Simone
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8V 5C2, Canada
| | - Jacqueline L Pavelick
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Xiao Wu
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Greaton W Tan
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Amin M Ektesabi
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Sahil Gupta
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - James N Tsoporis
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Claudia C Dos Santos
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada
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6
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Zhou S, Abdihamid O, Tan F, Zhou H, Liu H, Li Z, Xiao S, Li B. KIT mutations and expression: current knowledge and new insights for overcoming IM resistance in GIST. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:153. [PMID: 38414063 PMCID: PMC10898159 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01411-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common sarcoma located in gastrointestinal tract and derived from the interstitial cell of Cajal (ICC) lineage. Both ICC and GIST cells highly rely on KIT signal pathway. Clinically, about 80-90% of treatment-naive GIST patients harbor primary KIT mutations, and special KIT-targeted TKI, imatinib (IM) showing dramatic efficacy but resistance invariably occur, 90% of them was due to the second resistance mutations emerging within the KIT gene. Although there are multiple variants of KIT mutant which did not show complete uniform biologic characteristics, most of them have high KIT expression level. Notably, the high expression level of KIT gene is not correlated to its gene amplification. Recently, accumulating evidences strongly indicated that the gene coding, epigenetic regulation, and pre- or post- protein translation of KIT mutants in GIST were quite different from that of wild type (WT) KIT. In this review, we elucidate the biologic mechanism of KIT variants and update the underlying mechanism of the expression of KIT gene, which are exclusively regulated in GIST, providing a promising yet evidence-based therapeutic landscape and possible target for the conquer of IM resistance. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shishan Zhou
- Division of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, Xiangya road 87
| | - Omar Abdihamid
- Garissa Cancer Center, Garissa County Referral Hospital, Kismayu road, Garissa town, P.O BOX, 29-70100, Kenya
| | - Fengbo Tan
- Division of Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, China, Hunan, Changsha
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Division of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Heli Liu
- Division of Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, China, Hunan, Changsha
| | - Zhi Li
- Center for Molecular Medicine of Xiangya Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, 410008
| | - Sheng Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, 410008, MA, USA
| | - Bin Li
- Division of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, Xiangya road 87#.
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Kp A, Kaliaperumal K, Sekar D. microRNAs and their therapeutic strategy in phase I and phase II clinical trials. Epigenomics 2024; 16:259-271. [PMID: 38312027 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
miRNAs play a crucial therapeutic role in diseases such as cancer, diabetes and viral infections, with around 1900 identified in the human genome. Some have progressed to clinical trials, and miRNA mimics and miRNA inhibitors are pivotal therapeutic molecules undergoing evaluation. The review delves into various miRNA-associated clinical trials, emphasizing their precision in targeting specific genes, modulating disease pathways and diagnostic potential. This underscores the importance of miRNA therapy, foreseeing innovations in precision medicine techniques for diverse diseases. The future envisions improved delivery systems addressing challenges like immunogenicity and digestion, while a comprehensive miRNA-based omics database could guide the development of tailored antisense miRNAs, further advancing precision medicine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameya Kp
- RNA Biology Lab, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, India
| | - Kumaravel Kaliaperumal
- Unit of Biomaterials Research, Department of Orthodontics, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600077, India
| | - Durairaj Sekar
- RNA Biology Lab, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, India
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8
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dos Santos CC, Lopes-Pacheco M, English K, Rolandsson Enes S, Krasnodembskaya A, Rocco PRM. The MSC-EV-microRNAome: A Perspective on Therapeutic Mechanisms of Action in Sepsis and ARDS. Cells 2024; 13:122. [PMID: 38247814 PMCID: PMC10813908 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as innovative therapeutic agents for the treatment of sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Although their potential remains undisputed in pre-clinical models, this has yet to be translated to the clinic. In this review, we focused on the role of microRNAs contained in MSC-derived EVs, the EV microRNAome, and their potential contribution to therapeutic mechanisms of action. The evidence that miRNA transfer in MSC-derived EVs has a role in the overall therapeutic effects is compelling. However, several questions remain regarding how to reconcile the stochiometric issue of the low copy numbers of the miRNAs present in the EV particles, how different miRNAs delivered simultaneously interact with their targets within recipient cells, and the best miRNA or combination of miRNAs to use as therapy, potency markers, and biomarkers of efficacy in the clinic. Here, we offer a molecular genetics and systems biology perspective on the function of EV microRNAs, their contribution to mechanisms of action, and their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia C. dos Santos
- Institute of Medical Sciences and Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
- Keenan Center for Biomedical Research, Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Miquéias Lopes-Pacheco
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Investigation, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil;
| | - Karen English
- Kathleen Lonsdale Institute for Human Health Research, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland;
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Sara Rolandsson Enes
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Anna Krasnodembskaya
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University of Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK;
| | - Patricia R. M. Rocco
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Investigation, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil;
- National Institute of Science and Technology for Regenerative Medicine, Rio de Janeiro 21941-599, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Innovation Network in Nanosystems for Health-NanoSaúde, Research Support Foundation of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20020-000, Brazil
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9
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Rocca R, Grillone K, Citriniti EL, Gualtieri G, Artese A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Alcaro S. Targeting non-coding RNAs: Perspectives and challenges of in-silico approaches. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115850. [PMID: 37839343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
The growing information currently available on the central role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including microRNAs (miRNAS) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) for chronic and degenerative human diseases makes them attractive therapeutic targets. RNAs carry out different functional roles in human biology and are deeply deregulated in several diseases. So far, different attempts to therapeutically target the 3D RNA structures with small molecules have been reported. In this scenario, the development of computational tools suitable for describing RNA structures and their potential interactions with small molecules is gaining more and more interest. Here, we describe the most suitable strategies to study ncRNAs through computational tools. We focus on methods capable of predicting 2D and 3D ncRNA structures. Furthermore, we describe computational tools to identify, design and optimize small molecule ncRNA binders. This review aims to outline the state of the art and perspectives of computational methods for ncRNAs over the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Rocca
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Net4Science srl, Academic Spinoff, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Katia Grillone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Artese
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Net4Science srl, Academic Spinoff, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy.
| | | | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Stefano Alcaro
- Department of Health Science, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Net4Science srl, Academic Spinoff, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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10
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Ascrizzi S, Arillotta GM, Grillone K, Caridà G, Signorelli S, Ali A, Romeo C, Tassone P, Tagliaferri P. Lynch Syndrome Biopathology and Treatment: The Potential Role of microRNAs in Clinical Practice. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3930. [PMID: 37568746 PMCID: PMC10417124 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153930] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lynch syndrome (LS), also known as Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC), is an autosomal dominant cancer syndrome which causes about 2-3% of cases of colorectal carcinoma. The development of LS is due to the genetic and epigenetic inactivation of genes involved in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system, causing an epiphenomenon known as microsatellite instability (MSI). Despite the fact that the genetics of the vast majority of MSI-positive (MSI+) cancers can be explained, the etiology of this specific subset is still poorly understood. As a possible new mechanism, it has been recently demonstrated that the overexpression of certain microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs), such as miR-155, miR-21, miR-137, can induce MSI or modulate the expression of the genes involved in LS pathogenesis. MiRNAs are small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level by playing a critical role in the modulation of key oncogenic pathways. Increasing evidence of the link between MSI and miRNAs in LS prompted a deeper investigation into the miRNome involved in these diseases. In this regard, in this study, we discuss the emerging role of miRNAs as crucial players in the onset and progression of LS as well as their potential use as disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the current view of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Ascrizzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Grazia Maria Arillotta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Katia Grillone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Giulio Caridà
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Stefania Signorelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Asad Ali
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Caterina Romeo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
- Medical Oncology and Translational Medical Oncology Units, University Hospital Renato Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.A.); (G.M.A.); (K.G.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (A.A.); (C.R.); (P.T.)
- Medical Oncology and Translational Medical Oncology Units, University Hospital Renato Dulbecco, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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