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Chaiyawat P, Sangkhathat S, Chiangjong W, Wongtrakoongate P, Hongeng S, Pruksakorn D, Chutipongtanate S. Targeting Pediatric Solid Tumors in the New Era of RNA Therapeutics. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024:104406. [PMID: 38834094 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104406] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite substantial progress in pediatric cancer treatment, poor prognosis remained for patients with recurrent or metastatic disease, given the limitations of approved targeted treatments and immunotherapies. RNA therapeutics offer significant potential for addressing a broad spectrum of diseases, including cancer. Advances in manufacturing and delivery systems are paving the way for the rapid development of therapeutic RNAs for clinical applications. This review summarizes therapeutic RNA classifications and the mechanisms of action, highlighting their potential in manipulating major cancer-related pathways and biological effects. We also focus on the pre-clinical investigation of RNA molecules with efficient delivery systems for their therapeutic potential targeting pediatric solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parunya Chaiyawat
- Musculoskeletal Science and Translational Research Center, Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States
| | - Surasak Sangkhathat
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand; Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States
| | - Wararat Chiangjong
- Pediatric Translational Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400 Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States
| | - Patompon Wongtrakoongate
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400 Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States
| | - Suradej Hongeng
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ra-mathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400 Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States
| | - Dumnoensun Pruksakorn
- Musculoskeletal Science and Translational Research Center, Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States.
| | - Somchai Chutipongtanate
- Pediatric Translational Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400 Thailand; MILCH and Novel Therapeutics Lab, Division of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ra-mathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400 Thailand; Extracellular Vesicle Working Group, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267 United States.
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2
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Gioacchini FM, Di Stadio A, De Luca P, Camaioni A, Pace A, Iannella G, Rubini C, Santarelli M, Tomassetti M, Scarpa A, Olivieri F, Re M. A pilot study to evaluate the expression of microRNA‑let‑7a in patients with intestinal‑type sinonasal adenocarcinoma. Oncol Lett 2024; 27:69. [PMID: 38192674 PMCID: PMC10773186 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.14202] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite its histological resemblance to colorectal adenocarcinoma, there is little information about the molecular events involved in the pathogenesis of intestinal-type sinonasal adenocarcinoma (ITAC). The present study investigated the possible role and clinical value of microRNA (miR)-let-7a, a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma-related miR, in a well-characterized and homogeneous cohort of patients with ethmoidal ITAC associated with occupational exposure, treated by primary surgery. miR-let-7a expression levels were analyzed in 23 pairs of ethmoidal ITAC and adjacent normal formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The expression was evaluated in tumor and healthy tissues according to: Tumor grade (G) of differentiation and extension, and pTNM stage, and presence/absence of recurrence. Comparisons within and between groups were performed using two-tailed Student's paired t-test and one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test. P<0.05 was considered to indicate a statistically significant difference. miR-let-7a expression in ethmoidal ITAC tissues was significantly lower than that in adjacent normal tissues (P<0.05; mean expression level ± SD, 1.452707±1.4367189 vs. 4.094017±2.7465375). miR expression varied with pT stage. miR-let-7a was downregulated (P<0.05) in advanced stages (pT3-pT4) compared with earlier stages (pT1-pT2). Furthermore, downregulation of miR-let-7a in ITAC was associated with poorly-differentiated (G3) cancer (P<0.05). No other associations were observed between miR-let-7a expression and the other clinicopathological parameters, including disease-free survival. In conclusion, downregulation of miR-let-7a in ITAC was associated with advanced-stage (pT3 and pT4) and poorly-differentiated (G3) disease, suggesting that the mutation of this gene, combined with additional genetic events, could serve a role in ITAC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Maria Gioacchini
- Ear, Nose and Throat Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona Joint Hospitals, I-60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Arianna Di Stadio
- Gian Filippo Ingrassia Department, Otolaryngology Unit, University of Catania, I-95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Pietro De Luca
- Department of Otolaryngology, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina-Gemelli Hospital, I-00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Camaioni
- Head and Neck Department, San Giovanni-Addolorata Hospital, I-00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pace
- Department of Sense Organs, University La Sapienza of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giannicola Iannella
- Department of Sense Organs, University La Sapienza of Rome, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Rubini
- Pathology and Histopathology Division, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, I-60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Santarelli
- Pathology and Histopathology Division, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, I-60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Marco Tomassetti
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Section of Occupational Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, I-60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Alfonso Scarpa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, I-84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Fabiola Olivieri
- Clinic of Laboratory and Precision Medicine, IRCCS INRCA, I-60121 Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, I-60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Massimo Re
- Ear, Nose and Throat Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona Joint Hospitals, I-60020 Ancona, Italy
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3
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Yang T, Mills LJ, Hubbard AK, Cao R, Raduski A, Machiela MJ, Spector LG. Genetic analyses identify evidence for a causal relationship between Ewing sarcoma and hernias. HGG ADVANCES 2024; 5:100254. [PMID: 37919896 PMCID: PMC10692953 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2023.100254] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of Ewing sarcoma (EWS) risk factors is exceedingly limited; however, multiple small, independent studies have suggested a possible connection between hernia and EWS. By leveraging hernia summary statistics from the UK Biobank and a recently published genome-wide association study of EWS (733 EWS cases and 1,346 controls), we conducted a genetic investigation of the relationship of 5 hernia types (diaphragmatic, inguinal, umbilical, femoral, and ventral) and EWS. We discovered a positive causal relationship between inguinal hernia and EWS (OR 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.59, and p = 0.041) through Mendelian randomization analysis. Further analyses suggested shared pathways through three genes: HMGA2, LOX, and FBXW7. Diaphragmatic hernia showed a stronger causal relationship with EWS among all of the hernia types (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.30-3.95, p = 0.004), but no statistically significant local correlation pattern was observed. No evidence of a causal or genetic relationship was observed between EWS and the other three hernia types, including umbilical hernia, despite a previous report indicating an OR as high as 3.3. The finding of our genetic analysis provided additional support to the hypothesis that EWS and hernias may share a common origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhong Yang
- Division of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Lauren J Mills
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Aubrey K Hubbard
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rui Cao
- Division of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Andrew Raduski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mitchell J Machiela
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20892, USA
| | - Logan G Spector
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Hassan M, Shahzadi S, Malik A, Din SU, Yasir M, Chun W, Kloczkowski A. Oncomeric Profiles of microRNAs as New Therapeutic Targets for Treatment of Ewing's Sarcoma: A Composite Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1849. [PMID: 37895198 PMCID: PMC10606885 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101849] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that forms in bones and soft tissues in the body, affecting mostly children and young adults. Current treatments for ES are limited to chemotherapy and/or radiation, followed by surgery. Recently, microRNAs have shown favourable results as latent diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in various cancers. Furthermore, microRNAs have shown to be a good therapeutic agent due to their involvement in the dysregulation of various molecular pathways linked to tumour progression, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. In this review, comprehensive data mining was employed to explore various microRNAs that might have therapeutic potential as target molecules in the treatment of ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubashir Hassan
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA;
| | - Saba Shahzadi
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA;
| | - Amal Malik
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore 54590, Pakistan;
| | - Salah ud Din
- Department of Bioinformatics, University of Okara, Okara 56130, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Yasir
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.Y.); (W.C.)
| | - Wanjoo Chun
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.Y.); (W.C.)
| | - Andrzej Kloczkowski
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
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5
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Gong H, Xue B, Ru J, Pei G, Li Y. Targeted Therapy for EWS-FLI1 in Ewing Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4035. [PMID: 37627063 PMCID: PMC10452796 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164035] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is a rare and predominantly pediatric malignancy of bone and soft tissue in children and adolescents. Although international collaborations have greatly improved the prognosis of most EwS, the occurrence of macrometastases or relapse remains challenging. The prototypic oncogene EWS-FLI1 acts as an aberrant transcription factor that drives the cellular transformation of EwS. In addition to its involvement in RNA splicing and the DNA damage response, this chimeric protein directly binds to GGAA repeats, thereby modifying the transcriptional profile of EwS. Direct pharmacological targeting of EWS-FLI1 is difficult because of its intrinsically disordered structure. However, targeting the EWS-FLI1 protein complex or downstream pathways provides additional therapeutic options. This review describes the EWS-FLI1 protein partners and downstream pathways, as well as the related target therapies for the treatment of EwS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helong Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
| | - Busheng Xue
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
| | - Jinlong Ru
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany;
| | - Guoqing Pei
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China;
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
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Mikhailova EV, Romanova IV, Bagrov AY, Agalakova NI. Fli1 and Tissue Fibrosis in Various Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031881. [PMID: 36768203 PMCID: PMC9915382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Being initially described as a factor of virally-induced leukemias, Fli1 (Friend leukemia integration 1) has attracted considerable interest lately due to its role in both healthy physiology and a variety of pathological conditions. Over the past few years, Fli1 has been found to be one of the crucial regulators of normal hematopoiesis, vasculogenesis, and immune response. However, abnormal expression of Fli1 due to genetic predisposition, epigenetic reprogramming (modifications), or environmental factors is associated with a few diseases of different etiology. Fli1 hyperexpression leads to malignant transformation of cells and progression of cancers such as Ewing's sarcoma. Deficiency in Fli1 is implicated in the development of systemic sclerosis and hypertensive disorders, which are often accompanied by pronounced fibrosis in different organs. This review summarizes the initial findings and the most recent advances in defining the role of Fli1 in diseases of different origin with emphasis on its pro-fibrotic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena V. Mikhailova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 44 Thorez Avenue, 194223 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina V. Romanova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 44 Thorez Avenue, 194223 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Natalia I. Agalakova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 44 Thorez Avenue, 194223 Saint-Petersburg, Russia
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7
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Apfelbaum AA, Wrenn ED, Lawlor ER. The importance of fusion protein activity in Ewing sarcoma and the cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors that regulate it: A review. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1044707. [PMID: 36505823 PMCID: PMC9727305 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1044707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence shows that despite clonal origins tumors eventually become complex communities comprised of phenotypically distinct cell subpopulations. This heterogeneity arises from both tumor cell intrinsic programs and signals from spatially and temporally dynamic microenvironments. While pediatric cancers usually lack the mutational burden of adult cancers, they still exhibit high levels of cellular heterogeneity that are largely mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Ewing sarcomas are aggressive bone and soft tissue malignancies with peak incidence in adolescence and the prognosis for patients with relapsed and metastatic disease is dismal. Ewing sarcomas are driven by a single pathognomonic fusion between a FET protein and an ETS family transcription factor, the most common of which is EWS::FLI1. Despite sharing a single driver mutation, Ewing sarcoma cells demonstrate a high degree of transcriptional heterogeneity both between and within tumors. Recent studies have identified differential fusion protein activity as a key source of this heterogeneity which leads to profoundly different cellular phenotypes. Paradoxically, increased invasive and metastatic potential is associated with lower EWS::FLI1 activity. Here, we review what is currently understood about EWS::FLI1 activity, the cell autonomous and tumor microenvironmental factors that regulate it, and the downstream consequences of these activity states on tumor progression. We specifically highlight how transcription factor regulation, signaling pathway modulation, and the extracellular matrix intersect to create a complex network of tumor cell phenotypes. We propose that elucidation of the mechanisms by which these essential elements interact will enable the development of novel therapeutic approaches that are designed to target this complexity and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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8
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The Biological Function of MicroRNAs in Bone Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042348. [PMID: 35216464 PMCID: PMC8876091 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042348] [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: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are small endogenous noncoding RNAs molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. A single miRNA is able to target hundreds of specific messenger RNA (mRNAs) by binding to the 3′-untranslated regions. miRNAs regulate different biological processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Altered miRNA expression is certainly related to the development of the most common human diseases, including tumors. Osteosarcoma (OS), Ewing’s Sarcoma (ES), and Chondrosarcoma (CS) are the most common primary bone tumors which affect mainly children and adolescents. A significant dysregulation of miRNA expression, in particular of mir-34, mir-21, mir-106, mir-143, and miR-100, has been revealed in OS, ES and CS. In this context, miRNAs can act as either tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes, contributing to the initiation and progression of bone tumors. The in-depth study of these small molecules can thus help to better understand their biological functions in bone tumors. Therefore, this review aims to examine the potential role of miRNAs in bone tumors, especially OS, ES and CS, and to suggest their possible use as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of bone tumors and as biomarkers for early diagnosis.
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de Sá Pereira BM, Montalvão de Azevedo R, da Silva Guerra JV, Faria PA, Soares-Lima SC, De Camargo B, Maschietto M. Non-coding RNAs in Wilms' tumor: biological function, mechanism, and clinical implications. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:1043-1055. [PMID: 33950291 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02075-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs are involved with maintenance and regulation of physiological mechanisms and are involved in pathological processes, such as cancer. Among the small ncRNAs, miRNAs are the most explored in tumorigenesis, metastasis development, and resistance to chemotherapy. These small molecules of ~ 22 nucleotides are modulated during early renal development, involved in the regulation of gene expression and Wilms' tumor progression. Wilms' tumors are embryonic tumors with few mutations and complex epigenetic dysregulation. In recent years, the small ncRNAs have been explored as potentially related both in physiological development and in the tumorigenesis of several types of cancer. Besides, genes regulated by miRNAs are related to biological pathways as PI3K, Wnt, TGF-β, and Hippo signaling pathways, among others, which may be involved with the underlying mechanisms of resistance to chemotherapy, and in this way, it has emerged as potential targets for cancer therapies, including for Wilms' tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafaela Montalvão de Azevedo
- Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCa), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.,Current institution: Molecular Bases of Genetic Risk and Genetic Testing Unit, Research Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - João Victor da Silva Guerra
- Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutic Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo A Faria
- Brazilian National Cancer Institute (INCa), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | - Mariana Maschietto
- Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, SP, Brazil. .,Current: Research Institute, Boldrini Children's Hospital, Rua Dr. Gabriel Porto, 1270 - Cidade Universitária, Campinas, SP, 13083-210, Brazil.
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10
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Keskin T, Bakaric A, Waszyk P, Boulay G, Torsello M, Cornaz-Buros S, Chevalier N, Geiser T, Martin P, Volorio A, Iyer S, Kulkarni A, Letovanec I, Cherix S, Cote GM, Choy E, Digklia A, Montemurro M, Chebib I, Nielsen PG, Carcaboso AM, Mora J, Renella R, Suvà ML, Fusco C, Provero P, Rivera MN, Riggi N, Stamenkovic I. LIN28B Underlies the Pathogenesis of a Subclass of Ewing Sarcoma LIN28B Control of EWS-FLI1 Stability. Cell Rep 2021; 30:4567-4583.e5. [PMID: 32234488 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is associated with poor prognosis despite current multimodal therapy. Targeting of EWS-FLI1, the fusion protein responsible for its pathogenesis, and its principal downstream targets has not yet produced satisfactory therapeutic options, fueling the search for alternative approaches. Here, we show that the oncofetal RNA-binding protein LIN28B regulates the stability of EWS-FLI1 mRNA in ~10% of EwSs. LIN28B depletion in these tumors leads to a decrease in the expression of EWS-FLI1 and its direct transcriptional network, abrogating EwS cell self-renewal and tumorigenicity. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of LIN28B mimics the effect of LIN28B depletion, suggesting that LIN28B sustains the emergence of a subset of EwS in which it also serves as an effective therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugba Keskin
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Arnaud Bakaric
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Waszyk
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gaylor Boulay
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Matteo Torsello
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sandrine Cornaz-Buros
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nadja Chevalier
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department Woman-Mother-Child, Division of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thibaud Geiser
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Martin
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Angela Volorio
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sowmya Iyer
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anupriya Kulkarni
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Igor Letovanec
- Department of Pathology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Cherix
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gregory M Cote
- Center for Sarcoma and Connective Tissue Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Edwin Choy
- Center for Sarcoma and Connective Tissue Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Antonia Digklia
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Montemurro
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Chebib
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Petur G Nielsen
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Angel M Carcaboso
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Mora
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raffaele Renella
- Department Woman-Mother-Child, Division of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mario L Suvà
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Carlo Fusco
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Provero
- Center for Translational Genomics and Bioinformatics, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Miguel N Rivera
- Department of Pathology and Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Nicolò Riggi
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Stamenkovic
- Experimental Pathology Service, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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11
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Lee YR, Chang CM, Yeh YC, Huang CYF, Lin FM, Huang JT, Hsieh CC, Wang JR, Liu HS. Honeysuckle Aqueous Extracts Induced let-7a Suppress EV71 Replication and Pathogenesis In Vitro and In Vivo and Is Predicted to Inhibit SARS-CoV-2. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020308. [PMID: 33669264 PMCID: PMC7920029 DOI: 10.3390/v13020308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica Thunb) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with an antipathogenic activity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that are ubiquitously expressed in cells. Endogenous miRNA may function as an innate response to block pathogen invasion. The miRNA expression profiles of both mice and humans after the ingestion of honeysuckle were obtained. Fifteen overexpressed miRNAs overlapped and were predicted to be capable of targeting three viruses: dengue virus (DENV), enterovirus 71 (EV71) and SARS-CoV-2. Among them, let-7a was examined to be capable of targeting the EV71 RNA genome by reporter assay and Western blotting. Moreover, honeysuckle-induced let-7a suppression of EV71 RNA and protein expression as well as viral replication were investigated both in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that let-7a targeted EV71 at the predicted sequences using luciferase reporter plasmids as well as two infectious replicons (pMP4-y-5 and pTOPO-4643). The suppression of EV71 replication and viral load was demonstrated in two cell lines by luciferase activity, RT-PCR, real-time PCR, Western blotting and plaque assay. Furthermore, EV71-infected suckling mice fed honeysuckle extract or inoculated with let-7a showed decreased clinical scores and a prolonged survival time accompanied with decreased viral RNA, protein expression and virus titer. The ingestion of honeysuckle attenuates EV71 replication and related pathogenesis partially through the upregulation of let-7a expression both in vitro and in vivo. Our previous report and the current findings imply that both honeysuckle and upregulated let-7a can execute a suppressive function against the replication of DENV and EV71. Taken together, this evidence indicates that honeysuckle can induce the expression of let-7a and that this miRNA as well as 11 other miRNAs have great potential to prevent and suppress EV71 replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ray Lee
- Department of Medical Research, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 600, Taiwan;
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ming Chang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
| | - Yuan-Chieh Yeh
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung Medical Center, Keelung 204, Taiwan;
- Program in Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
| | - Chi-Ying F. Huang
- Program in Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Mao Lin
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan;
| | - Juan-Ting Huang
- Division of Big Data, Phalanx Biotech Group, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan;
| | - Chang-Chi Hsieh
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan;
| | - Jen-Ren Wang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
| | - Hsiao-Sheng Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- M. Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-3121101 (ext. 2378)
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12
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Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is a highly aggressive pediatric bone cancer that is defined by a somatic fusion between the EWSR1 gene and an ETS family member, most frequently the FLI1 gene, leading to expression of a chimeric transcription factor EWSR1-FLI1. Otherwise, EwS is one of the most genetically stable cancers. The situation when the major cancer driver is well known looks like a unique opportunity for applying the systems biology approach in order to understand the EwS mechanisms as well as to uncover some general mechanistic principles of carcinogenesis. A number of studies have been performed revealing the direct and indirect effects of EWSR1-FLI1 on multiple aspects of cellular life. Nevertheless, the emerging picture of the oncogene action appears to be highly complex and systemic, with multiple reciprocal influences between the immediate consequences of the driver mutation and intracellular and intercellular molecular mechanisms, including regulation of transcription, epigenome, and tumoral microenvironment. In this chapter, we present an overview of existing molecular profiling resources available for EwS tumors and cell lines and provide an online comprehensive catalogue of publicly available omics and other datasets. We further highlight the systems biology studies of EwS, involving mathematical modeling of networks and integration of molecular data. We conclude that despite the seeming simplicity, a lot has yet to be understood on the systems-wide mechanisms connecting the driver mutation and the major cellular phenotypes of this pediatric cancer. Overall, this chapter can serve as a guide for a systems biology researcher to start working on EwS.
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13
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High Mobility Group A (HMGA): Chromatin Nodes Controlled by a Knotty miRNA Network. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030717. [PMID: 31979076 PMCID: PMC7038092 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
High mobility group A (HMGA) proteins are oncofoetal chromatin architectural factors that are widely involved in regulating gene expression. These proteins are unique, because they are highly expressed in embryonic and cancer cells, where they play a relevant role in cell proliferation, stemness, and the acquisition of aggressive tumour traits, i.e., motility, invasiveness, and metastatic properties. The HMGA protein expression levels and activities are controlled by a connected set of events at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational levels. In fact, microRNA (miRNA)-mediated RNA stability is the most-studied mechanism of HMGA protein expression modulation. In this review, we contribute to a comprehensive overview of HMGA-targeting miRNAs; we provide detailed information regarding HMGA gene structural organization and a comprehensive evaluation and description of HMGA-targeting miRNAs, while focusing on those that are widely involved in HMGA regulation; and, we aim to offer insights into HMGA-miRNA mutual cross-talk from a functional and cancer-related perspective, highlighting possible clinical implications.
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14
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Kosela-Paterczyk H, Paziewska A, Kulecka M, Balabas A, Kluska A, Dabrowska M, Piatkowska M, Zeber-Lubecka N, Ambrozkiewicz F, Karczmarski J, Mikula M, Rutkowski P, Ostrowski J. Signatures of circulating microRNA in four sarcoma subtypes. J Cancer 2020; 11:874-882. [PMID: 31949491 PMCID: PMC6959019 DOI: 10.7150/jca.34723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sarcomas are rare malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin. The discovery of circulating biomarkers with high diagnostic value could supplement diagnosis of this heterogenous group of tumors. The aim of this study was to identify the profiles of circulating miRNA (c-miRNAs) in four groups of common bone and soft tissue sarcomas. Methods: At the time of diagnosis, blood samples were collected from 86 patients: 36 with locally advanced/unresectable/metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) who received first-line treatment with imatinib; 16 with locally advanced osteosarcoma (OS); 26 with locally advanced synovial sarcoma (SS); and eight with locally advanced Ewing sarcoma (ES). In addition, samples were collected from 30 healthy controls. C-miRNAs were isolated using a miRCURY RNA Isolation Kit, followed by preparation of cDNA libraries and sequencing on the Ion Proton platform. Results: Pair-wise comparisons identified 156 unique c-miRNAs (adjusted P-value < 0.05) showing significant dysregulation between controls and patients; of these, 24, 36, 42, and 99 differentiated controls from pretherapeutic OS, SS, ES, and GIST, respectively. Ten c-miRNAs were commonly altered in at least three sarcoma types. Receiver operating characteristic curves and area under the curve (ROC-AUC) analyses revealed that a four-miRNA diagnostic classifier was able to differentiate controls from ES, GIST, OS, and SS, with AUC-ROC values of 1, 0.97, 0.95, and 0.94, respectively. Conclusions: Aberrant miRNA expression signatures were identified in serum from patients with four different sarcoma subtypes. Differences in miRNA expression profiles between sarcoma patients and healthy volunteers suggest that miRNAs may play a role in sarcoma development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Kosela-Paterczyk
- Department of Soft Tissue, Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Paziewska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Kulecka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aneta Balabas
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Kluska
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michalina Dabrowska
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Piatkowska
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Zeber-Lubecka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Filip Ambrozkiewicz
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Karczmarski
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michal Mikula
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Rutkowski
- Department of Soft Tissue, Bone Sarcoma and Melanoma, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Ostrowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Institute - Oncology Centre; 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
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15
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Viera GM, Salomao KB, de Sousa GR, Baroni M, Delsin LEA, Pezuk JA, Brassesco MS. miRNA signatures in childhood sarcomas and their clinical implications. Clin Transl Oncol 2019; 21:1583-1623. [PMID: 30949930 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-019-02104-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Progresses in multimodal treatments have significantly improved the outcomes for childhood cancer. Nonetheless, for about one-third of patients with Ewing sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, or osteosarcoma steady remission has remained intangible. Thus, new biomarkers to improve early diagnosis and the development of precision-targeted medicine remain imperative. Over the last decade, remarkable progress has been made in the basic understanding of miRNAs function and in interpreting the contribution of their dysregulation to cancer development and progression. On this basis, this review focuses on what has been learned about the pivotal roles of miRNAs in the regulation of key genes implicated in childhood sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Viera
- Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil
| | - K B Salomao
- Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil
| | - G R de Sousa
- Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil
| | - M Baroni
- Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil
| | - L E A Delsin
- Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil
| | - J A Pezuk
- Anhanguera University of Sao Paulo, UNIAN/SP, Sao Paulo, Brasil
| | - M S Brassesco
- Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brasil.
- Departamento de Biologia, FFCLRP-USP, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, Bairro Monte Alegre, Ribeirao Preto, SP, CEP 14040-901, Brazil.
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16
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Mercatelli N, Fortini D, Palombo R, Paronetto MP. Small molecule inhibition of Ewing sarcoma cell growth via targeting the long non coding RNA HULC. Cancer Lett 2019; 469:111-123. [PMID: 31639426 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Ewing sarcomas (ES) are aggressive pediatric cancers of bone and soft tissues characterized by in frame chromosomal translocations giving rise to chimeric transcription factors, such as EWS-FLI1. An emerging strategy to block EWS-FLI1 activity is represented by the small molecule YK-4-279, which binds to EWS-FLI1 and alters its transcriptional activity. The specific effectors of the anti-oncogenic activity of YK-4-279 are still largely unknown. Herein, by performing a high-throughput screening we identify the lncRNA HULC (Highly Upregulated in Liver Cancer) as a prominent target of YK-4-279 activity in ES cells. High levels of HULC correlate with ES aggressiveness, whereas HULC depletion reduces ES cell growth. Mechanistically, we find that HULC promotes the expression of TWIST1 oncogene by sponging miR-186. Downregulation of HULC upon treatment with YK-4-279 reduces the expression of TWIST1 by unleashing miR-186 and favoring its binding to TWIST1 transcripts. Notably, high levels of miR-186 and low levels of TWIST1 correlate with better prognosis in ES patients. Our results disclose a novel oncogenic regulatory circuit mediated by HULC lncRNA that is disrupted by the small molecule YK-4-279, with promising therapeutic implications for ES treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neri Mercatelli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, 00143, Italy.
| | - Diana Fortini
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, 00143, Italy
| | - Ramona Palombo
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, 00143, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Paronetto
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, 00143, Italy; Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Piazza Lauro de Bosis 6, 00135, Rome, Italy.
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17
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Ouyang H, Zhang K, Fox-Walsh K, Yang Y, Zhang C, Huang J, Li H, Zhou Y, Fu XD. The RNA binding protein EWS is broadly involved in the regulation of pri-miRNA processing in mammalian cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 45:12481-12495. [PMID: 30053258 PMCID: PMC5716145 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ewing Sarcoma protein (EWS) is a multifaceted RNA binding protein (RBP) with established roles in transcription, pre-mRNA processing and DNA damage response. By generating high quality EWS-RNA interactome, we uncovered its specific and prevalent interaction with a large subset of primary microRNAs (pri-miRNAs) in mammalian cells. Knockdown of EWS reduced, whereas overexpression enhanced, the expression of its target miRNAs. Biochemical analysis revealed that multiple elements in target pri-miRNAs, including the sequences flanking the stem-loop region, contributed to high affinity EWS binding and sequence swap experiments between target and non-target demonstrated that the flanking sequences provided the specificity for enhanced pri-miRNA processing by the Microprocessor Drosha/DGCR8. Interestingly, while repressing Drosha expression, as reported earlier, we found that EWS was able to enhance the recruitment of Drosha to chromatin. Together, these findings suggest that EWS may positively and negatively regulate miRNA biogenesis via distinct mechanisms, thus providing a new foundation to understand the function of EWS in development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiwu Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Kristi Fox-Walsh
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0651, USA
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jie Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Hairi Li
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0651, USA
| | - Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.,Institue of Advanced Studies, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0651, USA
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18
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Lu Q, Lu M, Li D, Zhang S. MicroRNA‑34b promotes proliferation, migration and invasion of Ewing's sarcoma cells by downregulating Notch1. Mol Med Rep 2018; 18:3577-3588. [PMID: 30106161 PMCID: PMC6131584 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma is the second most frequent bone and soft tissue sarcoma, which is commonly driven by the Ewing's sarcoma breakpoint region 1-friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (EWS-FLI1) fusion gene. Since microRNAs (miRs) can act as either oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes in human cancer, and miR-34b has been reported to act as a tumor suppressor, the role of miR-34b in Ewing's sarcoma was investigated in the present study. The results demonstrated that miR-34b expression levels were higher in tumor samples compared within normal tissue samples. Notably, miR-34b expression levels were significantly higher in EWS-FLI1-positive samples compared within EWS-FLI1-negative samples. The effects of miR-34b expression on cell proliferation, migration and invasion were also examined. miR-34b expression was inhibited using small interfering (si)RNA targeting the fusion gene. Transfection of a miR-34b precursor sequence into siRNA-treated tumor cells resulted in a significant increase in cell growth, migration and invasion compared within the control group. In addition, the adhesive ability was increased in the Ewing's sarcoma cell line RD-ES, but not A673, following miR-34b upregulation. Conversely, downregulation of miR-34b expression led to a significant decrease in cell growth, migration and invasion. Notch has previously been reported to serve either oncogenic or tumor suppressive roles in human cancer. The results indicated that Notch1 and its target genes, Hes family BHLH transcription factor 1 and Hes-related family BHLH transcription factor with YRPW motif 1, were suppressed by miR-34b directly In conclusion, EWS-FLI1 may modulate miR-34b expression directly or indirectly, and miR-34b potentially has an oncogenic role in Ewing's sarcoma by downregulating Notch1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunshan Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Mei Lu
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
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19
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Baldassarre A, Felli C, Prantera G, Masotti A. Circulating microRNAs and Bioinformatics Tools to Discover Novel Diagnostic Biomarkers of Pediatric Diseases. Genes (Basel) 2017; 8:genes8090234. [PMID: 28925938 PMCID: PMC5615367 DOI: 10.3390/genes8090234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Current studies have shown that miRNAs are also present in extracellular spaces, packaged into various membrane-bound vesicles, or associated with RNA-binding proteins. Circulating miRNAs are highly stable and can act as intercellular messengers to affect many physiological processes. MicroRNAs circulating in body fluids have generated strong interest in their potential use as clinical biomarkers. In fact, their remarkable stability and the relative ease of detection make circulating miRNAs ideal tools for rapid and non-invasive diagnosis. This review summarizes recent insights about the origin, functions and diagnostic potential of extracellular miRNAs by especially focusing on pediatric diseases in order to explore the feasibility of alternative sampling sources for the development of non-invasive pediatric diagnostics. We will also discuss specific bioinformatics tools and databases for circulating miRNAs focused on the identification and discovery of novel diagnostic biomarkers of pediatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristina Felli
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Research Laboratories, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Prantera
- Department of Ecology and Biology, Università della Tuscia, 01100 Viterbo, Italy.
| | - Andrea Masotti
- Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital-IRCCS, Research Laboratories, 00146 Rome, Italy.
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20
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Merhautová J, Vychytilová-Faltejsková P, Demlová R, Slabý O. Systemic administration of miRNA mimics by liposomal delivery system in animal model of colorectal carcinoma. Physiol Res 2017; 65:S481-S488. [PMID: 28006930 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
MiRNAs are important regulators of gene expression and changes in their levels are linked with various pathological states, including solid tumors. MiR-215 has been identified as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer (CRC). Following our previous in vitro and in vivo experiments, the aim of this project was to study the possibility of increasing the levels of miR-215 in tumor cells by systemic administration of miRNA mimics in liposomal delivery system in vivo. By subcutaneous xenotransplantation of human cancer cells to NSG mice, CRC model was established. The treatment (miR-215 mimics in liposomes [20 and 40 microg/mouse], control oligonucleotide in liposomes, or saline) was administered repeatedly by i.v. injection via tail-vein. Animals were sacrificed, tumor were dissected and measured by a caliper. Expression of miR-215 in tumors, lungs and liver was quantified by RT-PCR. There was no significant differences in tumor volume and miR-215 expression between all three treatment groups. Therefore, the decrease in tumor volume was not achieved. By comparing the levels of miR-215 in lungs, liver and tumors after the treatment, we suggest that the liposomes are accumulated in the lungs and do not concentrate sufficiently in the tumor site to exert significant tumor-suppressive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Merhautová
- Molecular Oncology II - Solid Cancer, CEITEC, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
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21
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Zhou JY, Xu B, Li L. A New Role for an Old Drug: Metformin Targets MicroRNAs in Treating Diabetes and Cancer. Drug Dev Res 2016; 76:263-9. [PMID: 26936407 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of short, noncoding, 19-23 base pair RNA molecules. Due to their unique role in gene regulation in various tissues, miRNAs play important roles in regulating insulin secretion, metabolic disease, and cancer biology. Emerging evidence demonstrates that miRNAs could also be novel diagnostic markers for a variety of disease states. Additionally, miRNAs have been found to function either as oncogenes, or tumor suppressor genes in cerian cancers. An increasing number of studies have been conducted investigating new drugs targeting miRNAs as a potential anticancer therapy. Metformin is the most widely prescribed medication for treating Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Recent clinical data suggests that metformin impacts the miRNA profile in T2D subjects. Most excitingly, studies have found that metformin is protective against cancer. The anticancer activity of metformin is mediated through a direct regulation of miRNAs, which further modulates several downstream genes in metabolic or preoncogenic pathways. These miRNAs are, therefore, prospective therapeutic targets for treating diabetes and cancer which is the topic of this review. Further study on the regulation of miRNAs by metformin could result in novel therapeutic strategies for recurrent or drug-esistant cancer, and as part of combinatorial approaches with conventional anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Yi Zhou
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3A 0G4
| | - Biao Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lixin Li
- Department of Physician Assistant, College of Health Professions, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, 48859, USA
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22
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The association between let-7, RAS and HIF-1α in Ewing Sarcoma tumor growth. Oncotarget 2016; 6:33834-48. [PMID: 26393682 PMCID: PMC4741806 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing Sarcoma (ES) is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor in children and adolescents. microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in cancer as tumor suppressors or oncogenes. We studied the involvement of miRNAs located on chromosomes 11q and 22q that participate in the most common translocation in ES. Of these, we focused on 3 that belong to the let-7 family. We studied the expression levels of let-7a, and let-7b and detected a significant correlation between low expression of let-7b and increased risk of relapse. let-7 is known to be a negative regulator of the RAS oncogene. Indeed, we detected an inverse association between the expression of let-7 and RAS protein levels and its downstream target p-ERK, following transfection of let-7 mimics and inhibitors. Furthermore, we identified let-7 as a negative regulator of HIF-1α and EWS-FLI-1. Moreover, we were able to show that HIF-1α directly binds to the EWS-FLI-1 promoter. Salirasib treatment in-vitro resulted in the reduction of cell viability, migration ability, and in the decrease of cells in S-phase. A significant reduction in tumor burden and in the expression levels of both HIF-1α and EWS-FLI-1 proteins were observed in mice after treatment. Our results support the hypothesis that let-7 is a tumor suppressor that negatively regulates RAS, also in ES, and that HIF-1α may contribute to the aggressive metastatic behavior of ES. Moreover, the reduction in the tumor burden in a mouse model of ES following Salirasib treatment, suggests therapeutic potential for this RAS inhibitor in ES.
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Sand LGL, Berghuis D, Szuhai K, Hogendoorn PCW. Expression of CCL21 in Ewing sarcoma shows an inverse correlation with metastases and is a candidate target for immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2016; 65:995-1002. [PMID: 27369431 PMCID: PMC4956712 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-016-1862-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive neoplasm predominantly occurring in adolescents and has a poor prognosis when metastasized. For patients with metastatic disease in particular, immunotherapy has been proposed as possible beneficial additive therapy. CCL21 activation-based immunotherapy was successful in preclinical studies in other tumor types; therefore, we investigated CCL21 expression in Ewing sarcoma as potential target for immunotherapy. The CCL21 RNA expression was determined in 21 Ewing sarcoma cell lines and 18 primary therapy-naive Ewing sarcoma samples. In the tumor samples, this was correlated with the number and CD4+/CD8+ ratio of infiltrating T cells and clinical parameters. Higher RNA expression levels of CCL21 significantly correlated with a lower CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio (P = 0.009), good chemotherapeutic response (P = 0.01) and improved outcome (P < 0.001). In patients with metastases, CCL21 expression was significantly lower than in patients without (P < 0.0005). CCL21 expression was significantly higher in Ewing sarcoma tissue samples compared to cell lines (P < 0.01), implying the involvement of a stromal factor. Protein expression analysis of CCL21 and its receptor CCR7 in 24 therapy-naïve tumors showed that there was no expression in all bar one Ewing sarcoma cells. In conclusion, CCL21 is expressed in clinical Ewing sarcoma samples by nontumor-infiltrating immune cells. The observed positive correlation with survival implies that CCL21 might be a potential prognostic marker for Ewing sarcoma and marks the potential of CCL21 immunotherapy for use in Ewing sarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens G L Sand
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Dagmar Berghuis
- Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karoly Szuhai
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Pancras C W Hogendoorn
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Lawlor ER, Sorensen PH. Twenty Years on: What Do We Really Know about Ewing Sarcoma and What Is the Path Forward? Crit Rev Oncog 2016; 20:155-71. [PMID: 26349414 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2015013553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive bone and soft-tissue tumor with peak incidence among adolescents and young adults. Despite advances in local control and systemic chemotherapy, metastatic relapse after an initial clinical remission remains a significant clinical problem. In addition, metastasis at the time of presentation or at relapse continues to be the leading cause of death for patients diagnosed with ES. Since the discovery of the pathognomonic EWS-FLI1 fusion gene more than 20 years ago, much about the molecular and cellular biology of ES pathogenesis has been learned. In addition, more recent exploitation of advances in stem cell and developmental biology has provided key insights into the cellular origins of ES and the role of epigenetic deregulation in tumor initiation and maintenance. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that drive tumor relapse and metastasis remain largely unknown. These gaps in our knowledge continue to hamper the development of novel therapeutic strategies that may improve outcomes for patients with relapsed and metastatic disease. In this article we review the current status of ES biology research, highlighting areas of investigation that we consider to have the greatest potential to yield findings that will translate into clinically significant advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Lawlor
- Department of Pediatrics & Communicable Diseases and Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Poul H Sorensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Kim SK, Park YK. Ewing sarcoma: a chronicle of molecular pathogenesis. Hum Pathol 2016; 55:91-100. [PMID: 27246176 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Sarcomas have traditionally been classified according to their chromosomal alterations regardless of whether they accompany simple or complex genetic changes. Ewing sarcoma, a classic small round cell bone tumor, is a well-known mesenchymal malignancy that results from simple sarcoma-specific genetic alterations. The genetic alterations are translocations between genes of the TET/FET family (TLS/FUS, EWSR1, and TAF15) and genes of the E26 transformation-specific (ETS) family. In this review, we intend to summarize a chronicle of molecular findings of Ewing sarcoma including recent advances and explain resultant molecular pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Kyum Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Koo Park
- Department of Pathology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Abstract
MicroRNA molecules have a variety of roles in cellular development and proliferation processes, including normal osteogenesis. These effects are exerted through post-translational inhibition of target genes. Altered miRNA expression has been demonstrated in several cancers, both in the tumor tissue and in the peripheral circulation. This may influence carcinogenesis if the specific miRNA targets are encoded by tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes. To date, most research investigating the role of microRNAs and primary bone tumors has focused on osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. Several microRNAs including the miR-34 family have been implicated in osteosarcoma tumorigenesis via effects on the Notch signaling pathway. Progression, invasion, and metastasis of osteosarcoma tumor cells is also influenced by microRNA expression. In addition, microRNA expression may affect the response to chemotherapy in osteosarcoma and thus hold potential for future use as either a prognostic indicator or a therapeutic target. The EWS-FLI1 fusion protein produced in Ewing sarcoma has been shown to induce changes in miRNA expression. MicroRNA expression profiling may have some potential for prediction of disease progression and survival in Ewing sarcoma. There is limited evidence to support a role for microRNAs in other primary bone tumors, either malignant or benign; however, early work is suggestive of involvement in chondrosarcoma, multiple osteochondromatosis, and giant cell tumors of bone.
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Zhang Z, Li Y, Huang L, Xiao Q, Chen X, Zhong J, Chen Y, Yang D, Han Z, Shu Y, Dai M, Cao K. Let-7a suppresses macrophage infiltrations and malignant phenotype of Ewing sarcoma via STAT3/NF-κB positive regulatory circuit. Cancer Lett 2016; 374:192-201. [PMID: 26902422 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 02/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The interaction between tumors cells, tumor-derived humoral factors and the bone marrow in the bone niches has been shown to be essential for bone tumor initiation and promotion. Among the tumor stromal cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are usually the most abundant immune population. Previously, we reported that let-7a functions as a tumor suppressor in ES. Herein, we found that the suppressive effects are not only limited on the malignant phenotype of tumor cells but also on the regulation of macrophage infiltration. We observed that the let-7a expression is negatively related to macrophage infiltrations in ES. Moreover, overexpression of putative ts-miRNA let-7a significantly suppressed the recruitment of PBMCs in vitro and decreased the macrophage infiltrations in ES-xenografted tumors in vivo. Most importantly, a positive regulatory feedback loop consisting of let-7a, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) (let-7a/STAT3/NF-κB) was involved in let-7a-mediated suppressive effects. These data might provide evidence of a novel intracellular signaling network function in ES pathogenesis, and manipulating this novel feedback loop will have therapeutic potential for ES patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongzu Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China; Department of Orthopedics, The Yongchuan Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 402160, China
| | - Yunyun Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Yongchuan Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 402160, China
| | - Lu Huang
- Department of Children Health and Care, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Qianren Xiao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Junlong Zhong
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Yiwei Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Dong Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Zhimin Han
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Yong Shu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Min Dai
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Kai Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, China.
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Gordon DJ, Motwani M, Pellman D. Modeling the initiation of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis in differentiating human embryonic stem cells. Oncogene 2015; 35:3092-102. [PMID: 26455317 PMCID: PMC4829493 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Oncogenic transformation in Ewing sarcoma tumors is driven by the fusion oncogene EWS-FLI1. However, despite the well-established role of EWS-FLI1 in tumor initiation, the development of models of Ewing sarcoma in human cells with defined genetic elements has been challenging. Here, we report a novel approach to model the initiation of Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis that exploits the developmental and pluripotent potential of human embryonic stem cells. The inducible expression of EWS-FLI1 in embryoid bodies, or collections of differentiating stem cells, generates cells with properties of Ewing sarcoma tumors, including characteristics of transformation. These cell lines exhibit anchorage-independent growth, a lack of contact inhibition and a strong Ewing sarcoma gene expression signature. Furthermore, these cells also demonstrate a requirement for the persistent expression of EWS-FLI1 for cell survival and growth, which is a hallmark Ewing sarcoma tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Gordon
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Motwani
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Pellman
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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MicroRNAs in the pathobiology of sarcomas. J Transl Med 2015; 95:987-94. [PMID: 26121318 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2015.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a rare and heterogeneous group of tumors. The last decade has witnessed extensive efforts to understand the pathobiology of many aggressive sarcoma types. In parallel, we have also begun to unravel the complex gene regulation processes mediated by microRNAs (miRNAs) in sarcomas and other cancers, discovering that microRNAs have critical roles in the majority of both oncogenic and tumor suppressor signaling networks. Expression profiles and a greater understanding of the biologic roles of microRNAs and other noncoding RNAs have considerably expanded our current knowledge and provided key pathobiological insights into many sarcomas, and helped identify novel therapeutic targets. The limited number of sarcoma patients in each sarcoma type and their heterogeneity pose distinct challenges in translating this knowledge into the clinic. It will be critical to prioritize these novel targets and choose those that have a broad applicability. A small group of microRNAs have conserved roles across many types of sarcomas and other cancers. Therapies that target these key microRNA-gene signaling and regulatory networks, in combination with standard of care treatment, may be the pivotal component in significantly improving treatment outcomes in patients with sarcoma or other cancers.
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30
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Abstract
Non-coding RNAs have received a lot of attention in recent years, with especial focus on microRNAs (miRNAs), so much so that in the just over two decades since the first miRNA, Lin4, was described, almost 40,000 publications about miRNAs have been generated. Less than 500 of these focus on sarcoma, and only a fraction of those on sarcomas of childhood specifically, with some of these representing observational studies and others containing functionally validated data. This is a group of cancers for which prognosis is often poor and therapeutic options limited, and it is especially in these areas that strides in understanding the role of non-coding RNAs and miRNAs in particular are to be welcomed. This review deals with the main forms of pediatric sarcoma, exploring what is known about the diagnostic and prognostic profiles of miRNAs in these tumours and where novel therapeutic options might present themselves for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna C Kelly
- The National Children's Research Centre, Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland.
| | - Antonio Lázaro
- The National Children's Research Centre, Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland.
| | - Maureen J O'Sullivan
- The National Children's Research Centre, Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland.
- Histology Laboratory, Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland.
- Trinity College, University of Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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31
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Sand LGL, Szuhai K, Hogendoorn PCW. Sequencing Overview of Ewing Sarcoma: A Journey across Genomic, Epigenomic and Transcriptomic Landscapes. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:16176-215. [PMID: 26193259 PMCID: PMC4519945 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160716176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive neoplasm occurring predominantly in adolescent Caucasians. At the genome level, a pathognomonic EWSR1-ETS translocation is present. The resulting fusion protein acts as a molecular driver in the tumor development and interferes, amongst others, with endogenous transcription and splicing. The Ewing sarcoma cell shows a poorly differentiated, stem-cell like phenotype. Consequently, the cellular origin of Ewing sarcoma is still a hot discussed topic. To further characterize Ewing sarcoma and to further elucidate the role of EWSR1-ETS fusion protein multiple genome, epigenome and transcriptome level studies were performed. In this review, the data from these studies were combined into a comprehensive overview. Presently, classical morphological predictive markers are used in the clinic and the therapy is dominantly based on systemic chemotherapy in combination with surgical interventions. Using sequencing, novel predictive markers and candidates for immuno- and targeted therapy were identified which were summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens G L Sand
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Karoly Szuhai
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Pancras C W Hogendoorn
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
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Varshney J, Subramanian S. MicroRNAs as potential target in human bone and soft tissue sarcoma therapeutics. Front Mol Biosci 2015; 2:31. [PMID: 26137468 PMCID: PMC4470082 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2015.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are highly aggressive heterogeneous tumors that are mesenchymal in origin. There have been vast advancements on identifying diagnostic markers for sarcomas including chromosomal translocations, but very little progress has been made to identify targeted therapies against them. The tumor heterogeneity, genetic complexity and the lack of drug studies make it challenging to recognize the potential targets and also accounts for the inadequate treatments in sarcomas. In recent years, microRNAs that are a part of small non-coding RNAs have shown promising results as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in multiple sarcoma types. This review focuses on the current knowledge of the microRNAs that are deregulated in sarcomas, and an insight on the strategies to target these microRNAs that are essential for developing improved therapies for various human sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotika Varshney
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Subbaya Subramanian
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN, USA ; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Zhang GM, Long XH, Liu JM, Zhu LB, Chen XY, Huang SH, Zhang ZH, Liu ZL. Let-7i inhibits the malignant phenotype of osteosarcoma cells by targeting Aurora-B. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:3543-3548. [PMID: 25997616 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous study indicated that Aurora-B is involved in osteosarcoma (OS) cell invasion and metastasis; however, the mechanism underlying Aurora-B overexpression in OS remains unknown. In the present study, significantly downregulated let-7i expression in OS tissues and OS cells was observed compared with that in normal adjacent tumorous tissues and human osteoblast cell lines. Bioinformatic predictions have revealed a conserved binding site in a microRNA locus on Aurora‑B, suggesting the potential of let‑7i targeting the Aurora‑B gene. To validate this, a luciferase reporter assay was performed on OS cells. The results indicated that Aurora‑B is a likely to be a direct target negatively regulated by let‑7i. The expression of let‑7i in OS cells was restored by infection with let‑7i mimics. Results revealed that Aurora‑B mRNA and protein expression levels were significantly decreased. Furthermore, the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of OS cells were significantly suppressed by infection with let‑7i mimics. Notably, the inhibitory effect of silencing Aurora‑B by LV‑shAurora‑B on cell proliferation, migratory and invasive ability was significantly lower than that by let‑7i mimics, which indicated that let‑7i inhibits cell malignant phenotypes partially by targeting Aurora‑B in OS cells. All data suggested that let‑7i may be a novel potential target for OS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Mei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xin Hua Long
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Jia Ming Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Liang Bo Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Yin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Shan Hu Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Hong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Li Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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Li Z, Yu X, Shen J, Wu WKK, Chan MTV. MicroRNA expression and its clinical implications in Ewing's sarcoma. Cell Prolif 2014; 48:1-6. [PMID: 25530497 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma (EWS) is the second most common primary bone cancer, and is a predominant childhood malignant disease. Due to limited understanding of its pathogenesis and frequent occurrence of resistance to conventional types of treatment, its management remains difficult, and mortality is frequent. Development of EWS is a multistep process involving genetic and epigenetic alterations of protein-coding proto-oncogenes and tumour-suppressor genes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently been discovered as a new category of non-protein coding; small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Substantial numbers of deregulated miRNAs have been documented in EWS and their biological significance has been confirmed in multiple functional experiments. Several studies have confirmed involvement of miRNAs in various steps of EWS pathogenesis, from occurrence to metastasis. Functionally, miRNA dysregulation may promote cell-cycle progression, confer resistance to apoptosis, and enhance invasiveness and metastasis. These miRNAs have opened a novel field in cancer research with potential clinical utilization for screening, diagnosis, prognostics and prediction of response to treatment. Elucidating biological aspects of miRNA dysregulation may help better understand pathogenesis of EWS and promote development of miRNA directed-therapeutics against it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100007, China
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Bao B, Azmi AS, Ali S, Zaiem F, Sarkar FH. Metformin may function as anti-cancer agent via targeting cancer stem cells: the potential biological significance of tumor-associated miRNAs in breast and pancreatic cancers. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2014; 2:59. [PMID: 25333034 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2305-5839.2014.06.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Metformin is one of the most used diabetic drugs for the management of type II diabetes mellitus (DM) in the world. Increased numbers of epidemiological and clinical studies have provided convincing evidence supporting the role of metformin in the development and progression of a variety of human tumors including breast and pancreatic cancer. Substantial pre-clinical evidence from in vitro and in vivo experimental studies strongly suggests that metformin has an anti-cancer activity mediated through the regulation of several cell signaling pathways including activation of AMP kinase (AMPK), and other direct and indirect mechanisms; however, the detailed mechanism(s) has not yet been fully understood. The concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has gained significant attention in recent years due its identification and defining its clinical implications in many different tumors including breast cancer and pancreatic cancer. In this review, we will discuss the protective role of metformin in the development of breast and pancreatic cancers. We will further discuss the role of metformin as an anti-cancer agent, which is in part mediated through targeting CSCs. Finally, we will discuss the potential role of metformin in the modulation of tumor-associated or CSC-associated microRNAs (miRNAs) as part of the novel mechanism of action of metformin in the development and progression of breast and pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Bao
- 1 Department of Pathology, 2 Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Asfar S Azmi
- 1 Department of Pathology, 2 Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Shadan Ali
- 1 Department of Pathology, 2 Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Feras Zaiem
- 1 Department of Pathology, 2 Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Fazlul H Sarkar
- 1 Department of Pathology, 2 Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Kovar H. Blocking the road, stopping the engine or killing the driver? Advances in targeting EWS/FLI-1 fusion in Ewing sarcoma as novel therapy. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2014; 18:1315-28. [PMID: 25162919 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2014.947963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ewing sarcoma (ES) represents the paradigm of an aberrant E-twenty-six (ETS) oncogene-driven cancer. It is characterized by specific rearrangements of one of five alternative ETS family member genes with EWSR1. There is experimental evidence that the resulting fusion proteins act as aberrant transcription factors driving ES pathogenesis. The transcriptional gene regulatory network driven by EWS-ETS proteins provides the oncogenic engine to the tumor. Therefore, EWS-ETS and their downstream machinery are considered ideal tumor-specific therapeutic targets. AREAS COVERED This review critically discusses the literature on the development of EWS-ETS-directed ES targeting strategies considering current knowledge of EWS-ETS biology and cellular context. It focuses on determinants of EWS-FLI1 function with an emphasis on interactions with chromatin structure. We speculate about the relevance of poorly investigated aspects in ES research such as chromatin remodeling and DNA damage repair for the development of targeted therapies. EXPERT OPINION This review questions the specificity of signature-based screening approaches to the identification of EWS-FLI1-targeted compounds. It challenges the view that targeting the downstream gene regulatory network carries potential for therapeutic breakthroughs because of resistance-inducing network rewiring. Instead, we propose to combine targeting of the fusion protein with epigenetic therapy as a future treatment strategy in ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinrich Kovar
- Children´s Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, and Medical University Vienna, Department of Pediatrics , Zimmermannplatz 10, A1090 Vienna , Austria +43 1 40470 4092 ; +43 1 40470 64092 ;
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37
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Fujiwara T, Kunisada T, Takeda K, Uotani K, Yoshida A, Ochiya T, Ozaki T. MicroRNAs in soft tissue sarcomas: overview of the accumulating evidence and importance as novel biomarkers. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:592868. [PMID: 25165708 PMCID: PMC4139009 DOI: 10.1155/2014/592868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sarcomas are distinctly heterogeneous tumors and a variety of subtypes have been described. Although several diagnostic explorations in the past three decades, such as identification of chromosomal translocation, have greatly improved the diagnosis of soft tissue sarcomas, the unsolved issues, including the limited useful biomarkers, remain. Emerging reports on miRNAs in soft tissue sarcomas have provided clues to solving these problems. Evidence of circulating miRNAs in patients with soft tissue sarcomas and healthy individuals has been accumulated and is accelerating their potential to develop into clinical applications. Moreover, miRNAs that function as novel prognostic factors have been identified, thereby facilitating their use in miRNA-targeted therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on miRNA deregulation in soft tissue sarcomas, and discuss their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Fujiwara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
- Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 7008558, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Kunisada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
- Department of Medical Materials for Musculoskeletal Reconstruction, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
| | - Ken Takeda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
- Department of Intelligent Orthopaedic System, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
| | - Koji Uotani
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
| | - Aki Yoshida
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 1040045, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Ozaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 7008558, Japan
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Liu JM, Long XH, Zhang GM, Zhou Y, Chen XY, Huang SH, Liu ZL, Zhang ZH. Let-7g reverses malignant phenotype of osteosarcoma cells by targeting Aurora-B. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2014; 7:4596-4606. [PMID: 25197332 PMCID: PMC4152022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating studies revealed that the expression levels of several miRNAs are up or down-regulated in osteosarcoma (OS). The aim of this study was to investigate the functional significance and molecular of the let-7g in OS cells. The expression levels of let-7g was significantly down-regulated in OS cell lines U2-OS and HOS cell compared to osteoblast cell lines HOB cell. Moreover, bioinformatic prediction suggested that Aurora-B, which is overexpressed and functions as an oncogene in OS cells, is a putative target gene of let-7g. Using mRNA and protein expression analysis and luciferase assays, we further identified let-7g directly regulated Aurora-B expression in OS cells. Functional investigation revealed both restoration of let-7g and silencing Aurora-B induce cell apoptosis and suppressed cell viability, migratory and invasive ability in OS cells. Finally, we found that silencing Aurora-B in OS cells could partly dampen anti-let-7g mediated tumor promotion. Thus, our findings suggested that let-7g inhibits OS cell malignant phenotype at least partly through targeting Aurora-B. Targeting of let-7g and Aurora-B may be a novel therapeutic strategy for treating OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Ming Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Xin Hua Long
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Guo Mei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Xuan Yin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Shan Hu Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Zhi Li Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
| | - Zhi Hong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang UniversityJiangxi, China
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Eid JE, Garcia CB. Reprogramming of mesenchymal stem cells by oncogenes. Semin Cancer Biol 2014; 32:18-31. [PMID: 24938913 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) originate from embryonic mesoderm and give rise to the multiple lineages of connective tissues. Transformed MSCs develop into aggressive sarcomas, some of which are initiated by specific chromosomal translocations that generate fusion proteins with potent oncogenic properties. The sarcoma oncogenes typically prime MSCs through aberrant reprogramming. They dictate commitment to a specific lineage but prevent mature differentiation, thus locking the cells in a state of proliferative precursors. Deregulated expression of lineage-specific transcription factors and controllers of chromatin structure play a central role in MSC reprogramming and sarcoma pathogenesis. This suggests that reversing the epigenetic aberrancies created by the sarcoma oncogenes with differentiation-related reagents holds great promise as a beneficial addition to sarcoma therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiane E Eid
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 771 Preston, Research Building, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - Christina B Garcia
- Department of Pediatrics-Nutrition, Baylor College of Medicine, BCM320, Huston, TX 77030, USA
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Differentially expressed miRNAs in Ewing sarcoma compared to mesenchymal stem cells: low miR-31 expression with effects on proliferation and invasion. PLoS One 2014; 9:e93067. [PMID: 24667836 PMCID: PMC3965523 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0093067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 03/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma, the second most common bone tumor in children and young adults, is an aggressive malignancy with a strong potential to metastasize. Ewing sarcoma is characterised by translocations encoding fusion transcription factors with an EWSR1 transactivation domain fused to an ETS family DNA binding domain. microRNAs are post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and aberrantly expressed microRNAs have been identified as tumor suppressors or oncogenes in most cancer types. To identify potential oncogenic and tumor suppressor microRNAs in Ewing sarcoma, we determined and compared the expression of 377 microRNAs in 40 Ewing sarcoma biopsies, 6 Ewing sarcoma cell lines and mesenchymal stem cells, the putative cellular origin of Ewing sarcoma, from 6 healthy donors. Of the 35 differentially expressed microRNAs identified (fold change >4 and q<0.05), 19 were higher and 16 lower expressed in Ewing sarcoma. In comparisons between Ewing sarcoma samples with EWS-FLI or EWS-ERG translocations, with differing dissemination characteristics and of primary samples and metastases no significantly differential expressed microRNAs were detected using various stringency criteria. For miR-31, the microRNA with lowest expression in comparison to mesenchymal stem cells, functional analyses were performed to determine its potential as a tumor suppressor in Ewing sarcoma. Two of four miR-31 transfected Ewing sarcoma cell lines showed a significantly reduced proliferation (19% and 33% reduction) due to increased apoptosis in one and increased length of G1-phase in the other cell line. All three tested miR-31 transfected Ewing sarcoma cell lines showed significantly reduced invasiveness (56% to 71% reduction). In summary, we identified 35 microRNAs differentially expressed in Ewing sarcoma and demonstrate that miR-31 affects proliferation and invasion of Ewing sarcoma cell lines in ex vivo assays.
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Li J, You T, Jing J. MiR-125b inhibits cell biological progression of Ewing's sarcoma by suppressing the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. Cell Prolif 2014; 47:152-60. [PMID: 24517182 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Increasing evidence has suggested the close relationship between microRNAs (miRNAs) dysregulation and the carcinogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma (ES), among of which miR-125b has been reported to be decreased in ES tissues recently. Strikingly, ectopic expression of miR-125b could suppress cell proliferation of ES cell line A673, suggesting the tumor suppressor role of miR-125b in ES. However, the other accurate mechanistic functions and relative molecule mechanisms are largely unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS Herein, we completed a series of experiments to investigate the role of miR-125b in Ewing's sarcoma. We restored the expression of miR-125b in ES cell line A673 through transfection with miR-125b mimics. To further understand the role of miR-125b in ES, we detected the effects of miR-125b on the cell proliferation, migration and invasion, cell cycle as well as cell apoptosis. RESULTS We found that restored expression of miR-125b in ES cell line A673 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, arrested cell cycle progression, and induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, bioinformatic prediction suggested the oncogene, phosphoinositide-3-kinase catalytic subunit delta (PIK3CD), was a target gene of miR-125b in ES cells. Further quantitative RT-PCR and western blot assays identified over-expression of miR-125b suppressed the expression of PIK3CD mRNA and protein. PIK3CD participates in regulating the PI3K signaling pathway, which has been reported to play an important role in the development of ES. Suppression of PIK3CD down-regulated the expression of phospho-AKT and phospho-mTOR proteins and inhibited the biologic progression of A673 cells. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these data suggest that miR-125b functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, and may provide potential therapy strategy for ES patients by targeting miRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, 230601, China
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Findlay VJ, LaRue AC, Turner DP, Watson PM, Watson DK. Understanding the role of ETS-mediated gene regulation in complex biological processes. Adv Cancer Res 2014; 119:1-61. [PMID: 23870508 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407190-2.00001-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ets factors are members of one of the largest families of evolutionarily conserved transcription factors, regulating critical functions in normal cell homeostasis, which when perturbed contribute to tumor progression. The well-documented alterations in ETS factor expression and function during cancer progression result in pleiotropic effects manifested by the downstream effect on their target genes. Multiple ETS factors bind to the same regulatory sites present on target genes, suggesting redundant or competitive functions. The anti- and prometastatic signatures obtained by examining specific ETS regulatory networks will significantly improve our ability to accurately predict tumor progression and advance our understanding of gene regulation in cancer. Coordination of multiple ETS gene functions also mediates interactions between tumor and stromal cells and thus contributes to the cancer phenotype. As such, these new insights may provide a novel view of the ETS gene family as well as a focal point for studying the complex biological control involved in tumor progression. One of the goals of molecular biology is to elucidate the mechanisms that contribute to the development and progression of cancer. Such an understanding of the molecular basis of cancer will provide new possibilities for: (1) earlier detection, as well as better diagnosis and staging of disease; (2) detection of minimal residual disease recurrences and evaluation of response to therapy; (3) prevention; and (4) novel treatment strategies. Increased understanding of ETS-regulated biological pathways will directly impact these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria J Findlay
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Abstract
Micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA segments that have a role in the regulation of normal cellular development and proliferation including normal osteogenesis. They exert their effects through inhibition of specific target genes at the post-transcriptional level. Many miRNAs have altered expression levels in cancer (either increased or decreased depending on the specific miRNA). Altered miRNA expression profiles have been identified in several malignancies including primary bone tumors such as osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma. It is thought that they may function as tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes and hence when dysregulated contribute to the initiation and progression of malignancy. miRNAs are also thought to have a role in the development of bone metastases in other malignancies. In addition, evidence increasingly suggests that miRNAs may play a part in determining the response to chemotherapy in the treatment of osteosarcoma. These molecules are readily detectable in tissues, both fresh and formalin fixed paraffin embedded and, more recently, in blood. Although there are fewer published studies regarding circulating miRNA profiles, they appear to reflect changes in tissue expression. Thus miRNAs may serve as potential indicators of disease presence but more importantly, may have a role in disease characterization or as potential therapeutic targets. This review gives a brief overview of miRNA biochemistry and explores the evidence to date implicating these small molecules in the pathogenesis of bone tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Nugent
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital, Finglas, Dublin, Ireland
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Zhang Z, Huang L, Yu Z, Chen X, Yang D, Zhan P, Dai M, Huang S, Han Z, Cao K. Let-7a functions as a tumor suppressor in Ewing's sarcoma cell lines partly by targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 6. DNA Cell Biol 2014; 33:136-47. [PMID: 24383407 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2013.2179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs play an important role in the development and progression of Ewing's sarcoma (ES). Especially, the expression of let-7a has been reported to be significantly downregulated in various cancers, and can affect the initiation and maintenance of tumor progression. However, the relative effects of let-7a on ES cells and relative mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we identified the underexpression of let-7a in human ES cells comparing with the human mesenchymal stem cells. Then, we sought to compensate for its loss through exogenous transfection with let-7a mimic into ES cell lines A673 and SK-ES-1. Restored let-7a expression inhibited cell proliferation, migration, as well as invasion; arrested cell cycle progression; and induced cell apoptosis of both cell lines. Moreover, bioinformatic prediction suggested that cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6), which is overexpressed and functions as an oncoprotein in ES cells, is a putative target gene of let-7a. Using mRNA and protein expression analysis and luciferase assays, we further identified the target role of CDK6. Finally, we found that restored CDK6 expression in ES cells that had been treated with let-7a mimic before could partly dampen let-7a-mediated tumor suppression. Taken together, our results showed that let-7a acted as a tumor suppressor in ES by targeting CDK6, and it may provide novel diagnostic and therapeutic options for human Ewing sarcoma clinical operation in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongzu Zhang
- 1 The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University , Nanchang, People's Republic of China
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Rettew AN, Getty PJ, Greenfield EM. Receptor tyrosine kinases in osteosarcoma: not just the usual suspects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 804:47-66. [PMID: 24924168 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-04843-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite aggressive surgical and chemotherapy protocols, survival rates for osteosarcoma patients have not improved over the last 30 years. Therefore, novel therapeutic agents are needed. Receptor tyrosine kinases have emerged as targets for the development of new cancer therapies since their activation leads to enhanced proliferation, survival, and metastasis. In fact, aberrant expression and activation of RTKs have been associated with the progression of many cancers. Studies from our lab using phosphoproteomic screening identified RTKs that are activated and thus may contribute to the signaling within metastatic human osteosarcoma cells. Functional genomic screening using siRNA was performed to distinguish which of the activated RTKs contribute to in vitro phenotypes associated with metastatic potential (motility, invasion, colony formation, and cell growth). The resulting RTK hits were then validated using independent validation experiments. From these results, we identified four RTKs (Axl, EphB2, FGFR2, and Ret) that have not been previously studied in osteosarcoma and provide targets for the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Rettew
- Department of Orthopaedics, Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA,
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The histone demethylase KDM3A is a microRNA-22-regulated tumor promoter in Ewing Sarcoma. Oncogene 2013; 34:257-62. [PMID: 24362521 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2013.541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ewing Sarcoma is a biologically aggressive bone and soft tissue malignancy affecting children and young adults. Ewing Sarcoma pathogenesis is driven by EWS/Ets fusion oncoproteins, of which EWS/Fli1 is the most common. We have previously shown that microRNAs (miRs) regulated by EWS/Fli1 contribute to the pro-oncogenic program in Ewing Sarcoma. Here we show that miR-22, an EWS/Fli1-repressed miR, is inhibitory to Ewing Sarcoma clonogenic and anchorage-independent cell growth, even at modest overexpression levels. Our studies further identify the H3K9me1/2 histone demethylase KDM3A (JMJD1A/JHDM2A) as a new miR-22-regulated gene. We show that KDM3A is overexpressed in Ewing Sarcoma, and that its depletion inhibits clonogenic and anchorage-independent growth in multiple patient-derived cell lines, and tumorigenesis in a xenograft model. KDM3A depletion further results in augmentation of the levels of the repressive H3K9me2 histone mark, and downregulation of pro-oncogenic factors in Ewing Sarcoma. Together, our studies identify the histone demethylase KDM3A as a new, miR-regulated, tumor promoter in Ewing Sarcoma.
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MicroRNA-let-7a promotes E2F-mediated cell proliferation and NFκB activation in vitro. Cell Mol Immunol 2013; 11:79-83. [PMID: 24240124 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2013.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Revised: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic factors, including altered microRNA (miRNA) expression, may contribute to aberrant immune cell function in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). MiRNA-let-7a (let-7a) has been shown to directly alter cell cycle progression and proinflammatory cytokine production. Due to the crucial role of let-7a in cell division and inflammation, we investigated let-7a-mediated proliferation and NFκB translocation in J774A.1 macrophages and MES 13 mesangial cells in vitro. In immune-stimulated cells transfected with let-7a, cell proliferation was significantly increased over time. There was a significant increase in the number of immune-stimulated cells in S and G2 phases. Immune-stimulated cells overexpressing let-7a had increased nuclear translocation of NFκB. Bioinformatical analysis revealed that the E2F family, critical regulators of the G1-S transition, has potential binding sites for let-7a in their mRNA transcripts. Let-7a overexpression significantly increased the expression of the cell cycle activator E2F2 and increased retinoblastoma protein (Rb) phosphorylation in immune-stimulated cells. The cell cycle inhibitor E2F5 was significantly decreased in let-7a-transfected cells that were immune-stimulated. Bioinformatical analysis revealed E2F2 and NFκB are transcription factors predicted to regulate the let-7a promoter. We analyzed transcriptional regulation of let-7a by real-time RT-PCR using chromatin immunoprecipitation with E2F2 and NFκB antibodies. There was an increase in E2F2 and NFκB binding in DNA enriched for the let-7a promoter in immune-stimulated cells. Silencing E2F2 or NFκB significantly decreased let-7a expression and IL-6 production in immune-stimulated cells. Taken together, our results suggest that overexpression of let-7a may contribute to hyperplasia and the proinflammatory response in SLE.
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Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a pediatric bone tumor characterized in 85% of cases by the fusion between EWS and FLI1 genes that results in the expression of the EWS-FLI1 aberrant transcription factor. Histologically, the Ewing tumor expresses high levels of the CD99 membrane glycoprotein. It has been recently described that CD99 expression contributes to the Ewing tumor oncogenesis by modulating growth and differentiation of tumor cells. Different studies have also shown that overexpression of EWS-FLI1 induces CD99 expression in non-Ewing cells. At the opposite, the knockdown of EWS-FLI1 expression by siRNA approaches has no significant effect on CD99 mRNA level in Ewing cells. Here, by in vivo and in vitro studies, we show that while EWS-FLI1 inhibition has only slight effects on the amount of CD99 transcript, it induces a dramatic decrease of the CD99 protein expression level, hence suggesting post-transcriptional regulations, possibly mediated by microRNAs. To further investigate this issue, we identified a set of 91 miRNAs that demonstrate EWS-FLI1 modulation, three of them being predicted to bind CD99 3' untranslated region (30'UTR). Among these, we show that miR-30a-5p has the ability to interact with the 30'UTR region of CD99 and to regulate its expression. Moreover, the re-expression of miRNA-30a-5p in Ewing cell line induces decreased cell proliferation and invasion. In this study, we therefore show that miR-30a-5p constitutes a major functional link between EWS-FLI1 and CD99, two critical biomarkers and therapeutic targets in Ewing sarcoma.
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Kar A, Gutierrez-Hartmann A. Molecular mechanisms of ETS transcription factor-mediated tumorigenesis. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 48:522-43. [PMID: 24066765 DOI: 10.3109/10409238.2013.838202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The E26 transformation-specific (ETS) family of transcription factors is critical for development, differentiation, proliferation and also has a role in apoptosis and tissue remodeling. Changes in expression of ETS proteins therefore have a significant impact on normal physiology of the cell. Transcriptional consequences of ETS protein deregulation by overexpression, gene fusion, and modulation by RAS/MAPK signaling are linked to alterations in normal cell functions, and lead to unlimited increased proliferation, sustained angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Existing data show that ETS proteins control pathways in epithelial cells as well as stromal compartments, and the crosstalk between the two is essential for normal development and cancer. In this review, we have focused on ETS factors with a known contribution in cancer development. Instead of focusing on a prototype, we address cancer associated ETS proteins and have highlighted the diverse mechanisms by which they affect carcinogenesis. Finally, we discuss strategies for ETS factor targeting as a potential means for cancer therapeutics.
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50
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Cui W, Zhang S, Shan C, Zhou L, Zhou Z. microRNA-133a regulates the cell cycle and proliferation of breast cancer cells by targeting epidermal growth factor receptor through the EGFR/Akt signaling pathway. FEBS J 2013; 280:3962-74. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.12398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Revised: 05/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Cui
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology (Ministry of Education); School of Biotechnology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi Jiangsu China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine; Emory University School of Medicine; Atlanta GA USA
| | - Changliang Shan
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology; Winship Cancer Institute; Emory University School of Medicine; Atlanta GA USA
| | - Li Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology (Ministry of Education); School of Biotechnology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi Jiangsu China
| | - Zhemin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology (Ministry of Education); School of Biotechnology; Jiangnan University; Wuxi Jiangsu China
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