Role of microRNA-30c targeting ADAM19 in colorectal cancer

Serum miR-30c serves as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC)，the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally and thus early detection, is considered critical for diagnosis and treatment of this disease. It is well known that measurement of microRNA (miRNA) may serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for GC. The aim of this study was to determine whether miR-30c was present in patients with gastric cancer and to correlate relative expression with patient survival. A total of 162 GC patients and 150 healthy controls were recruited. miR-30c levels were quantified in serum using quantitative real-time PCR(QRT-PCR). The sensitivity and specificity of circulating miR-30c was compared to carbohydrate antigen (CA) CA72-4, CA19-9, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), 3 known markers associated with GC. QRT-PCR demonstrated downregulation of gene expression of miR-30c in GC patients. Downregulation of miR-30c gene expression was significantly correlated with stage of cancer, lymphatic metastasis, and distal metastasis. The sensitivity to detect GC of miR-30c, CA72-4, CA19-9, and CEA in serum of GC was 80%, 43%, 21%, and 42%, respectively, while specificity was 89%, 57%, 30%, and 78% respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the presence of low gene expression of miR-30c was effective in predicting poor prognosis in GC patients. Our data suggest that circulating serum miR-30c concentrations may serve as a reliable biomarker for GC occurrence. (212words).

Evaluation of newly synthesized 2-(thiophen-2-yl)-1H-indole derivatives as anticancer agents against HCT-116 cell proliferation via cell cycle arrest and down regulation of miR-25

In the present study, we prepared new sixteen different derivatives. The first series were prepared (methylene)bis(2-(thiophen-2-yl)-1H-indole) derivatives which have (indole and thiophene rings) by excellent yield from the reaction (2 mmol) 2-(thiophen-2-yl)-1H-indole and (1 mmol) from aldehyde. The second series were synthesized (2-(thiophen-2-yl)-1H-indol-3-yl) methyl) aniline derivatives at a relatively low yield from multicomponent reaction of three components 2-(thiophen-2-yl)-1H-indole, N-methylaniline and desired aldehydes. The anticancer effect of the newly synthesized derivatives was determined against different cancers, colon, lung, breast and skin. The counter screening was done against normal Epithelial cells (RPE-1). The effect on cell cycle and mechanisms underlying of the antitumor effect were also studied. All new compounds were initially tested at a single dose of 100 μg/ml against this panel of 5 human tumor cell lines indicated that the compounds under investigation exhibit selective cytotoxicity against HCT-116 cell line and compounds (4g, 4a, 4c) showed potent anticancer activity against HCT-116 cell line with the inhibitory concentration IC50 values were, 7.1±0.07, 10.5± 0.07 and 11.9± 0.05 μΜ/ml respectively. Also, the active derivatives caused cell cycle arrest at the S and G2/M phase with significant(p < 0.0001) increase in the expression levels of tumor suppressors miR-30C, and miR-107 and a tremendous decrease in oncogenic miR-25, IL-6 and C-Myc levels. It is to conclude that the anticancer activity could be through direct interaction with tumor cell DNA like S-phase-dependent chemotherapy drugs. Which can interact with DNA or block DNA synthesis such as doxorubicin, cisplatin, or 5-fluorouracil and which were highly effective in killing the cancer cells. This data ensures the efficiency of the 3 analogues on inducing cell cycle arrest and preventing cancer cell growth. The altered expressions explained the molecular mechanisms through which the newly synthesized analogues exert their anticancer action.

Exosomal circ_0000735 contributes to non-small lung cancer malignant progression

Circular RNA is an important regulator for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Circ_0000735 has been found to be significantly overexpressed in NSCLC tissues. Therefore, its role and mechanism in NSCLC progression need to be further explored. The expression levels of circ_0000735, miR-345-5p and A disintegrin and metalloprotease 19 (ADAM19) were determined using quantitative real-time PCR. EdU staining, wound healing and transwell assays were utilized to detect cell proliferation and metastasis. The protein levels of metastasis markers, exosome markers and ADAM19 were determined using western blot. Animal experiments were performed to confirm the role of circ_0000735 in NSCLC tumorigenesis. The exosomes from cells and serum were identified using transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. We found that circ_0000735 was upregulated in NSCLC, and its knockdown repressed NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis. In terms of mechanism, circ_0000735 targeted miR-345-5p to regulate ADAM19. MiR-345-5p inhibitor reversed the suppressive effect of circ_0000735 knockdown on NSCLC progression, and ADAM19 overexpression abolished the inhibition effect of miR-345-5p on NSCLC progression. Also, animal experiments showed that silencing of circ_0000735 reduced NSCLC tumorigenesis. In addition, exosomes mediated the intercellular transmission of circ_0000735, and serum exosomal circ_0000735 might be an important indicator for the diagnosis of NSCLC. In conclusion, circ_0000735 facilitated NSCLC progression via miR-345-5p/ADAM19 pathway, and serum exosomal circ_0000735 might be a potential biomarker for NSCLC diagnosis.

YY1-induced lncRNA00511 promotes melanoma progression via the miR-150-5p/ADAM19 axis

Increasing evidence indicates that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are therapeutic targets and key regulators of tumors development and progression, including melanoma. Long intergenic non-protein-coding RNA 511 (LINC00511) has been demonstrated as an oncogenic molecule in breast, stomach, colorectal, and lung cancers. However, the precise role and functional mechanisms of LINC00511 in melanoma remain unknown. This study confirmed that LINC00511 was highly expressed in melanoma cells (A375 and SK-Mel-28 cells) and tissues, knockdown of LINC00511 could inhibit melanoma cell migration and invasion, as well as the growth of subcutaneous tumor xenografts in vivo. By using Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, it was demonstrated that the transcription factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1) is capable of binding to the LINC00511 promoter and enhancing its expression in cis. Further mechanistic investigation showed that LINC00511 was mainly enriched in the cytoplasm of melanoma cells and interacted directly with microRNA-150-5p (miR-150-5p). Consistently, the knockdown of miR-150-5p could recover the effects of LINC00511 knockdown on melanoma cells. Furthermore, ADAM metallopeptidase domain expression 19 (ADAM19) was identified as a downstream target of miR-150-5p, and overexpression of ADAM19 could promote melanoma cell proliferation. Rescue assays indicated that LINC00511 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge miR-150-5p and increase the expression of ADAM19, thereby activating the PI3K/AKT pathway. In summary, we identified LINC00511 as an oncogenic lncRNA in melanoma and defined the LINC00511/miR-150-5p/ADAM19 axis, which might be considered a potential therapeutic target and novel molecular mechanism the treatment of patients with melanoma.

Long non-coding RNA LINC00565 regulates ADAM19 expression through sponging microRNA-532-3p, thereby facilitating clear cell renal cell carcinoma progression

Proven by publications, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in the development of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Although lncRNA LINC00565 has been implicated in the progression of various cancers, its biological effects on ccRCC remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the biological functions of LINC00565, as well as its potential mechanism in ccRCC. Here, the expression data of mature microRNAs (miRNAs) (normal: 71, tumor: 545), messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and lncRNAs (normal: 72, tumor: 539) of ccRCC were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and subjected to differential expression analysis. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analyzed the expression levels of LINC00565, miR-532-3p, and ADAM19 mRNA. TCGA database, dual-luciferase report detection, and Argonaute 2 RNA immunoprecipitation were utilized to confirm the relationships between LINC00565 and miR-532-3p and between miR-532-3p and ADAM19, respectively. The progression of ccRCC cells was determined via CCK-8, colony formation, scratch healing, and transwell assays. Western blot was applied to detect the protein levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers and ADAM19. We herein suggested that LINC00565 was prominently upregulated in ccRCC tissues and cells. Knockdown of LINC00565 repressed cell progression. We further predicted and validated miR-532-3p as a target of LINC00565, and miR-532-3p could target ADAM19. Knockdown of LINC00565 resulted in ADAM19 level downregulation in ccRCC cells and suppressed miR-532-3p could restore ADAM19 level. Thus, the three RNAs constructed a ceRNA network. Overexpressed ADAM19 could eliminate the anticancer effects caused by knocking down LINC00565 on ccRCC cells. In conclusion, LINC00565 upregulated ADAM19 via absorbing miR-532-3p, thereby facilitating the progression of ccRCC cells.

Role of Some microRNA/ADAM Proteins Axes in Gastrointestinal Cancers as a Novel Biomarkers and Potential Therapeutic Targets—A Review

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are some of the most common cancers in the world and their number is increasing. Their etiology and pathogenesis are still unclear. ADAM proteins are a family of transmembrane and secreted metalloproteinases that play a role in cancerogenesis, metastasis and neoangiogenesis. MicroRNAs are small single-stranded non-coding RNAs that take part in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Some ADAM proteins can be targets for microRNAs. In this review, we analyze the impact of microRNA/ADAM protein axes in GI cancers.

Promotion of colorectal cancer by transcription factor BHLHE40 involves upregulation of ADAM19 and KLF7

BHLHE40 is a transcription factor, whose role in colorectal cancer has remained elusive. We demonstrate that the BHLHE40 gene is upregulated in colorectal tumors. Transcription of BHLHE40 was jointly stimulated by the DNA-binding ETV1 protein and two associated histone demethylases, JMJD1A/KDM3A and JMJD2A/KDM4A, which were shown to also form complexes on their own and whose enzymatic activity was required for BHLHE40 upregulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that ETV1, JMJD1A and JMJD2A interacted with several regions within the BHLHE40 gene promoter, suggesting that these three factors directly control BHLHE40 transcription. BHLHE40 downregulation suppressed both growth and clonogenic activity of human HCT116 colorectal cancer cells, strongly hinting at a pro-tumorigenic role of BHLHE40. Through RNA sequencing, the transcription factor KLF7 and the metalloproteinase ADAM19 were identified as putative BHLHE40 downstream effectors. Bioinformatic analyses showed that both KLF7 and ADAM19 are upregulated in colorectal tumors as well as associated with worse survival and their downregulation impaired HCT116 clonogenic activity. In addition, ADAM19, but not KLF7, downregulation reduced HCT116 cell growth. Overall, these data have revealed a ETV1/JMJD1A/JMJD2A→BHLHE40 axis that may stimulate colorectal tumorigenesis through upregulation of genes such as KLF7 and ADAM19, suggesting that targeting this axis represents a potential novel therapeutic avenue.

Role of non-coding RNAs and exosomal non-coding RNAs in retinoblastoma progression

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a rare aggressive intraocular malignancy of childhood that has the potential to affect vision, and can even be fatal in some children. While the tumor can be controlled efficiently at early stages, metastatic tumors lead to high mortality. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are implicated in a number of physiological cellular process, including differentiation, proliferation, migration, and invasion, The deregulation of ncRNAs is correlated with several diseases, particularly cancer. ncRNAs are categorized into two main groups based on their length, i.e. short and long ncRNAs. Moreover, ncRNA deregulation has been demonstrated to play a role in the pathogenesis and development of RB. Several ncRNAs, such as miR-491-3p, miR-613,and SUSD2 have been found to act as tumor suppressor genes in RB, but other ncRNAs, such as circ-E2F3, NEAT1, and TUG1 act as tumor promoter genes. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs can provide new opportunities for RB therapy. In the present review, we discuss the functional roles of the most important ncRNAs in RB, their interaction with the genes responsible for RB initiation and progression, and possible future clinical applications as diagnostic and prognostic tools or as therapeutic targets.

Genome-wide mapping of somatic mutation rates uncovers drivers of cancer

Identification of cancer driver mutations that confer a proliferative advantage is central to understanding cancer; however, searches have often been limited to protein-coding sequences and specific non-coding elements (for example, promoters) because of the challenge of modeling the highly variable somatic mutation rates observed across tumor genomes. Here we present Dig, a method to search for driver elements and mutations anywhere in the genome. We use deep neural networks to map cancer-specific mutation rates genome-wide at kilobase-scale resolution. These estimates are then refined to search for evidence of driver mutations under positive selection throughout the genome by comparing observed to expected mutation counts. We mapped mutation rates for 37 cancer types and applied these maps to identify putative drivers within intronic cryptic splice regions, 5' untranslated regions and infrequently mutated genes. Our high-resolution mutation rate maps, available for web-based exploration, are a resource to enable driver discovery genome-wide.

The role of microRNA-30c in targeting interleukin 6, as an inflammatory cytokine, in the mesenchymal stem cell: a therapeutic approach in colorectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer and the second significant cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. The microRNA-30 is a substantial member of the miRNA family and plays a vital role in expanding several cancers. This microRNA potentially targets interleukin 6 as an inflammatory cytokine in CRC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MSCs were isolated and identified from mice bone marrow and then transduced with lentiviruses containing miR-30C. Transfected MSCs were collected to evaluate IL-6 levels, CT-26 cells were also co-cultured with MSCs, and the effect of apoptosis and IL-6 on the supernatant was assessed.

RESULTS

Our result showed the expression of IL-6 mRNA and the level of protein were decreased in the supernatant of miR-30-transduced MSC cells compared to the control group. In addition, the rate of apoptosis was assessed, and the obtained data revealed the induction of apoptosis in CT-26 cells when they are in the vicinity of miR-30c-transduced MSCs.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that downregulation of miR-30c was significantly correlated with CRC progression and survival. So, the present study elucidated the anticancer effects of miR-30c in CRC and presented a novel target for CRC therapy.

Adamalizyny jako potencjalne biomarkery w wybranych nowotworach złośliwych przewodu pokarmowego

Nowotwory złośliwe przewodu pokarmowego zajmują czołowe miejsce zarówno wśród przyczyn zachorowań jak i zgonów z powodu chorób nowotworowych na świecie. Wciąż poszukuje się potencjalnych biomarkerów, które mogłyby posłużyć jako czynniki predykcyjne i prognostyczne w tych nowotworach. Wśród białek, które mogłyby pełnić taką rolę, wymienia się adamalizyny. Liczne białka z tej rodziny są zaangażowane w wielu etapach nowotworzenia, od procesu różnicowania się pojedynczych komórek, wzrost i progresję guza do tworzenia przerzutów odległych. Dzieje się to m.in. poprzez ścieżki sygnałowe związane z aktywacją insulinopodobnych czynników wzrostu, naskórkowych czynników wzrostu czy oddziaływanie na czynnik martwicy nowotworu TNF-α. Szczególnie istotna w wyjaśnieniu patomechanizmu rozwoju raków gruczołowych przewodu pokarmowego wydaje się ścieżka sygnałowa związana z aktywacją cytokin prozapalnych. Przewlekły stan zapalny jest bowiem dobrze udokumentowanym czynnikiem ryzyka rozwoju tej grupy chorób nowotworowych.

Poznanie roli białek z rodziny adamalizyn w rozwoju i patogenezie nowotworów złośliwych przewodu pokarmowego wymaga wciąż dalszych badań. W artykule podjęto próbę syntezy aktualnej wiedzy na temat wykorzystania wybranych białek z rodziny adamalizyn jako biomarkerów nowotworów złośliwych przewodu pokarmowego.

Effects and prognostic values of miR-30c-5p target genes in gastric cancer via a comprehensive analysis using bioinformatics

Gastric cancer (GC) is a common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. To improve the diagnosis and treatment of GC, it is necessary to identify new biomarkers by investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms. In this study, miR-30c-5p expression was significantly down-regulated in GC tissues by comprehensive analysis using multiple databases. The target genes of miR-30c-5p with up-regulated expression level in GC were identified, including ADAM12 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase12), EDNRA (the Endothelin receptor type A), STC1 (stanniocalcin 1), and CPNE8 (the calcium-dependent protein, copine 8). The expression level of ADAM12 was significantly related to depth of invasion (p = 0.036) in GC patients. The expression level of EDNRA was significantly related to grade (P = 0.003), depth of invasion (P = 0.019), and lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.001). The expression level of CPNE8 was significantly related to grade (P = 0.043) and TNM stage (P = 0.027).Gene set enrichment analysis showed that they might participate in GC progression through cancer-related pathways. CIBERSORT algorithm analysis showed that their expressions were related to a variety of tumor-infiltrating immune cells. The higher expression of those target genes might be the independent risk factor for poor survival of GC patients, and they might be potential prognostic markers in GC patients.

Elucidating the Molecular Basis of Sorafenib Resistance in HCC: Current Findings and Future Directions

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Sorafenib is the first multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for HCC and it has represented the standard of care for advanced HCC for almost 10 years, offering a survival benefit when compared to placebo. However, this benefit is limited, showing rare objective responses and a disease control rate approaching 50–60%, with most patients experiencing disease progression at 6 months. These scant results dictate the urgent need for strategies to overcome both primary and acquired resistance. Herein we report several mechanisms supporting resistance to sorafenib in HCC patients, including activation of oncogenic pathways. Among these, the AKT/mTOR pathway plays a crucial role being at the crossroad of multiple driving events. Autophagy, multidrug-resistant phenotype, hypoxia-related mechanisms and endoplasmic reticulum stress are gaining more and more relevance as crucial events driving the response to anticancer drugs, including sorafenib. Several HCC-specific miRNAs take part to the regulation of these cellular processes. Remarkably, molecularly targeted strategies able to overcome resistance in these settings have also been reported. So far, the vast majority of data has been derived from laboratory studies, which means the need for an extensive validation. Indeed, most of the possible drug associations displaying promising effects in improving sorafenib efficacy herein described derive from preclinical explorations. Notably, data obtained in animal models can be inconsistent with regard to the human disease for efficacy, safety, side effects, best formulation and pharmacokinetics. However, they represent the necessary preliminary step to improve the management of advanced HCC.

PRG2 and AQPEP are misexpressed in fetal membranes in placenta previa and percreta†

The obstetrical conditions placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) and placenta previa are a significant source of pregnancy-associated morbidity and mortality, yet the specific molecular and cellular underpinnings of these conditions are not known. In this study, we identified misregulated gene expression patterns in tissues from placenta previa and percreta (the most extreme form of PAS) compared with control cases. By comparing this gene set with existing placental single-cell and bulk RNA-Seq datasets, we show that the upregulated genes predominantly mark extravillous trophoblasts. We performed immunofluorescence on several candidate molecules and found that PRG2 and AQPEP protein levels are upregulated in both the fetal membranes and the placental disk in both conditions. While this increased AQPEP expression remains restricted to trophoblasts, PRG2 is mislocalized and is found throughout the fetal membranes. Using a larger patient cohort with a diverse set of gestationally aged-matched controls, we validated PRG2 as a marker for both previa and PAS and AQPEP as a marker for only previa in the fetal membranes. Our findings suggest that the extraembryonic tissues surrounding the conceptus, including both the fetal membranes and the placental disk, harbor a signature of previa and PAS that is characteristic of EVTs and that may reflect increased trophoblast invasiveness.

microRNAs and Corresponding Targets Involved in Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer in Preclinical In Vivo Models

The high death toll of colorectal cancer patients is due to metastatic disease which is difficult to treat. The liver is the preferred site of metastasis, followed by the lungs and peritoneum. In order to identify new targets and new modalities of intervention we surveyed the literature for microRNAs (miRs) which modulate metastasis of colorectal cancer in preclinical in vivo models. We identified 12 up-regulated and 19 down-regulated miRs corresponding to the latter criterium. The vast majority (n=16) of identified miRs are involved in modulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Other categories of metastasis-related miRs exhibit tumor- and metastasis-suppressing functions, modulation of signaling pathways, transmembrane receptors and a class of miRs, which interfere with targets which do not fit into these categories. Finally, we discuss the principles of miR inhibition and reconstitution of function, prospective clinical evaluation of with miR-related agents in the context of clinical evaluation in metastasis relevant settings.

Downregulation of miR-30c-5p expression in colorectal cancer tissue is sex-dependent

We report that decreased expression of miR-30c in tumor compared to adjacent tissue is sex-dependent in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. High expression of miR-30c was associated with better survival in the whole cohort. When the cohort was split into male and female subcohorts, decreased miR-30c expression in tumor compared to adjacent tissue was observed only in males. Expression of miR-30c was decreased in CRC tumor tissue in male patients with nodes involvement compared to those without metastases in nodes and this difference was not observe in females. Next dependency of miR-30c expression on oestrogen receptor beta (ERbeta) mRNA levels in tumor was tested. In males with low expression of ERbeta, we observed a significant decrease in miR-30c levels in patients with nodes involvement compared to those without nodes involvement. This difference was not observed in males with high ERbeta mRNA levels and in females. Accordingly, males with low expression of ERbeta and high expression of miR-30c showed a better survival that those with low expression ERbeta and low expression of miR-30c. It is possible to conclude that whole cohort survival dependence on miR-30c is mostly generated by a subcohort of males with low expression of ERbeta mRNA in tumor tissue.

Long non-coding RNA CASC7 is associated with the pathogenesis of heart failure via modulating the expression of miR-30c

MiRNAs can be used as promising diagnostic biomarkers of heart failure, while lncRNAs act as competing endogenous RNAs of miRNAs. In this study, we collected peripheral blood monocytes from subjects with or without HF to explore the association between certain lncRNAs, miRNAs and HF. Heart failure patients with preserved or reduced ejection fraction were recruited for investigation. ROC analysis was carried out to evaluate the diagnostic values of certain miRNAs and lncRNAs in HF. Luciferase assays were used to study the regulatory relationship between above miRNAs and lncRNAs. LncRNA overexpression was used to explore the effect of certain miRNAs in H9C2 cells. Expression of miR-30c was significantly decreased in the plasma and peripheral blood monocytes of patients suffering from heart failure, especially in these with reduced ejection fraction. On the contrary, the expression of lncRNA-CASC7 was remarkably increased in the plasma and peripheral blood monocytes of patients suffering from heart failure. Both miR-30c and lncRNA-CASC7 expression showed a promising efficiency as diagnostic biomarkers of heart failure. Luciferase assays indicated that miR-30c played an inhibitory role in lncRNA-CASC7 and IL-11 mRNA expression. Moreover, the overexpression of lncRNA-CASC7 suppressed the expression of miR-30c while evidently increasing the expression of IL-11 mRNA and protein in H9C2 cells. This study clarified the relationship among miR-30c, lncRNA-CASC7 and IL-11 expression and the risk of heart failure and showed that lncRNA-CASC7 is potentially involved in the pathogenesis of HF via modulating the expression of miR-30c.

Epigenetic Regulation of a Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase (ADAM) Transcription in Colorectal Cancer Cells: Involvement of β-Catenin, BRG1, and KDM4

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) family of proteins play versatile roles in cancer development and progression. In the present study, we investigated the role of ADAM proteins in colorectal cancer (CRC) cell migration and invasion focusing on the epigenetic mechanism whereby ADAM transcription is regulated. We report that higher levels of ADAM10, ADAM17, and ADAM19 were detected in SW480 cells than in HCT116 cells. Expression levels of the same set of ADAMs were higher in human CRC biopsy specimens of advanced stages than in those of a less aggressive phenotype. Overexpression of ADAM10/17/19 in HCT116 cells enhanced, whereas depletion of ADAM10/17/19 in SW480 cells weakened, migration and invasion. ADAM expression was activated by the Wnt signaling pathway, which could be attributed to direct binding of β-catenin on the ADAM promoters. Mechanistically, β-catenin recruited the chromatin remodeling protein BRG1, which in turn enlisted histone demethylase KDM4 to alter the chromatin structure, thereby leading to ADAM transactivation. In conclusion, our data suggest that the Wnt signaling may promote CRC metastasis, at least in part, by recruiting an epigenetic complex to activate ADAM transcription.

Circular RNA has_circ_0000034 accelerates retinoblastoma advancement through the miR-361-3p/ADAM19 axis

Retinoblastoma (RB) is an intraocular malignancy that mainly occurs in infants and young children under 5 years of age. Circular RNA hsa_circ_0000034 (circ_0000034) was reported to be upregulated in RB tissues. Nevertheless, the function and mechanism of circ_0000034 in RB are unclear. Expression of circ_0000034, microRNA-361-3p (miR-361-3p), and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 19 (ADAM19) was examined via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were determined though Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), transwell, or flow cytometry assays. Caspase-3 activity was detected using a caspase-3 activity assay kit. Some protein levels were examined using Western blot analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay, or RNA pull-down assay were performed to verify the relationship between circ_0000034 or ADAM19 and miR-361-3p. The function of circ_0000034 in vivo was confirmed via animal experiment. We verified that circ_0000034 expression was elevated in RB tissues and cells. Circ_0000034 silencing reduced RB growth in vivo, repressed viability, migration, invasion, and EMT, and induced apoptosis of RB cells in vitro. Circ_0000034 acted as a sponge for miR-361-3p, which targeted ADAM19 in RB cells. Furthermore, the inhibition of miR-361-3p restored circ_0000034 knockdown-mediated impacts on viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and EMT of RB cells. Moreover, ADAM19 overexpression abolished the influence of miR-361-3p mimic on viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and EMT of RB cells. Circ_0000034 expedited RB progression through upregulating ADAM19 via sponging miR-361-3p, which indicated that circ_0000034 might a target for RB therapy.

Transcriptome network of the papillary thyroid carcinoma radiation marker CLIP2

Background

We present a functional gene association network of the CLIP2 gene, generated by de-novo reconstruction from transcriptomic microarray data. CLIP2 was previously identified as a potential marker for radiation induced papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) of young patients in the aftermath of the Chernobyl reactor accident. Considering the rising thyroid cancer incidence rates in western societies, potentially related to medical radiation exposure, the functional characterization of CLIP2 is of relevance and contributes to the knowledge about radiation-induced thyroid malignancies.

Methods

We generated a transcriptomic mRNA expression data set from a CLIP2-perturbed thyroid cancer cell line (TPC-1) with induced CLIP2 mRNA overexpression and siRNA knockdown, respectively, followed by gene-association network reconstruction using the partial correlation-based approach GeneNet. Furthermore, we investigated different approaches for prioritizing differentially expressed genes for network reconstruction and compared the resulting networks with existing functional interaction networks from the Reactome, Biogrid and STRING databases. The derived CLIP2 interaction partners were validated on transcript and protein level.

Results

The best reconstructed network with regard to selection parameters contained a set of 20 genes in the 1st neighborhood of CLIP2 and suggests involvement of CLIP2 in the biological processes DNA repair/maintenance, chromosomal instability, promotion of proliferation and metastasis. Peptidylprolyl Isomerase Like 3 (PPIL3), previously identified as a potential direct interaction partner of CLIP2, was confirmed in this study by co-expression at the transcript and protein level.

Conclusion

In our study we present an optimized preselection approach for genes subjected to gene-association network reconstruction, which was applied to CLIP2 perturbation transcriptome data of a thyroid cancer cell culture model. Our data support the potential carcinogenic role of CLIP2 overexpression in radiation-induced PTC and further suggest potential interaction partners of the gene.

Role of MicroRNA-30c in cancer progression

MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) is a non-coding small RNA of a type of 18~24 nucleotide-regulated gene that has been discovered in recent years. It mainly degrades the target gene mRNA or inhibits its translation process through the complete or incomplete bindings with 3'UTR of target genes, followed by the regulation of individual development, apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation and other life activities through the post-transcriptional regulation. Among many miRNAs, the microRNA family, miR-30, plays diverse roles in these key process of neoplastic transformation, metastasis, and clinical outcomes in different cancer progression. As key member of miR-30, miR-30c is regulated by oncogenic transcription factors and cancer progression related genes. Recently, numerous studies have demonstrated that the aberrant expression of miR-30c was significantly associated with the majority of human cancer progression. In this review, the diverse roles of miR-30c in different cancer progression such as the cellular and molecular mechanisms, the potential applications in clinics were summarized to speculate the benefits of miR-30c over-expression in cancer treatment and prognosis.

MiR-30e-3p Influences Tumor Phenotype through MDM2/TP53 Axis and Predicts Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The molecular background of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is highly heterogeneous, and biomarkers predicting response to treatments are an unmet clinical need. We investigated miR-30e-3p contribution to HCC phenotype and response to sorafenib, as well as the mutual modulation of TP53/MDM2 pathway, in HCC tissues and preclinical models. MiR-30e-3p was downregulated in human and rat HCCs, and its downregulation associated with TP53 mutations. TP53 contributed to miR-30e-3p biogenesis, and MDM2 was identified among its target genes, establishing an miR-30e-3p/TP53/MDM2 feedforward loop and accounting for miR-30e-3p dual role based on TP53 status. EpCAM, PTEN, and p27 were demonstrated as miR-30e-3p additional targets mediating its contribution to stemness and malignant features. In a preliminary cohort of patients with HCC treated with sorafenib, increased miR-30e-3p circulating levels predicted the development of resistance. In conclusion, molecular background dictates miR-30e-3p dual behavior in HCC. Mdm2 targeting plays a predominant tumor suppressor function in wild-type TP53 contexts, whereas other targets such as PTEN, p27, and EpCAM gain relevance and mediate miR-30e-3p oncogenic role in nonfunctional TP53 backgrounds. Increased circulating levels of miR-30e-3p predict the development of sorafenib resistance in a preliminary series of patients with HCC and deserve future investigations. SIGNIFICANCE: The dual role of miR-30e-3p in HCC clarifies how the molecular context dictates the tumor suppressor or oncogenic function played by miRNAs.

Long noncoding RNA NORAD regulates lung cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion by the miR-30a-5p/ADAM19 axis

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is one of the most common human cancers. Long noncoding RNA-activated by DNA damage (NORAD) is often upregulated and promotes cell progression in various human cancers; however, its function and possible mechanism in lung cancer remain largely unknown.

METHODS

The expression levels of NORAD, miR-30a-5p and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 19 (ADAM19) were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). 3-(4, 5)-dimethylthiazole-2-y1)-2, 5-biphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry, and transwell assay were employed to detect cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion abilities, respectively. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of ADAM19. The interaction between miR-30a-5p and NORAD or ADAM19 was predicted by online software and confirmed by the dual-luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

The expression levels of NORAD and ADAM19 were increased and the expression level of miR-30a-5p was decreased in lung cancer tissues and cells. Knockdown of NORAD could inhibit cell proliferation, migration and invasion but promote apoptosis in lung cancer cells. In addition, NORAD directly interacted with miR-30a-5p and its overexpression reversed the anti-cancer role of miR-30a-5p in lung cancer. Moreover, miR-30a-5p directly targeted ADAM19 and its inhibition attenuated the inhibitory effect of ADAM19 knockdown on progression of lung cancer cells. Furthermore, NORAD functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) through sponging miR-30a-5p to regulate ADAM19 expression.

CONCLUSION

NORAD knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion but promoted cell apoptosis in lung cancer cells by regulating miR-30a-5p/ADAM19, providing a possible therapeutic strategy for lung cancer patients.

Molecular expression profiles of selected microRNAs in colorectal adenocarcinoma in patients from south-eastern part of Romania

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, non-coding class of RNAs with functions in the regulation of genes expressions. Dysregulated expressions of miRNAs play important roles in carcinogenesis and cancer progression by targeting various oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes. miRNAs represent a new field for molecular diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) due to their high tissue specificity, their stability, and their dysregulated expression in tumor development.This study aimed to investigate using the qRT-PCR method the expression profile and prognostic value of 11 mature miRNAs in a cohort of 82 Romanian patients diagnosed with CRC. The relationship between the expression levels of selected miRNAs and clinicopathologic features were evaluated using ANOVA and Pearson test. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess the diagnostic values of the miRNAs to discriminate cancerous from non-cancerous states of the samples.The expression levels of miR-30c, miR-144, miR-375, miR-214, and miR-195 in CRC tissue were significantly downregulated (all P < .05; Paired T-Test) than that in normal adjacent tissue sample (NATS), while the expression of miR-141, miR-182, miR-183, miR-21, and miR-370 in CRC tissue were significantly upregulated (all P < .001) than that in NATS. Moreover, the expression levels of miR-182, miR-183, miR-141, and miR-21 were demonstrated to be associated with a gradual increase in fold change expression with depth of tumor invasion (all P < .05), lymph node invasion (all P < .001), and maximal increase with distant metastasis (all P < .001). Moreover, the analysis of ROC curves revealed that AUC (95% CI) of miR-182, miR-183, miR-141, and miR-21 in diagnosis of CRC was 0.76 (0.66-0.87), 0.85 (0.78-0.94), 0.77 (0.62-0.92), 0.83 (0.73-0.90), respectively. The univariate and multivariate Cox-proportional hazard regression for all variables revealed that the nodal status, distant metastasis, miR-21, miR-141, miR-182, and miR-183 were independent prognostic markers of CRC.In conclusion, altered expressions of miR-21, miR-141, miR-182, and miR-183 in CRC varies at different stages of CRC development and may serve as potential diagnosis molecular biomarkers in Romanian patients with CRC. Further investigations are needed to confirm our findings.

Adenomatous polyposis coli as a predictor of environmental chemical-induced transgenerational effects related to male infertility

Exposure to toxic environmental chemicals during pregnancy is a ubiquitous threat to health with potentially transgenerational consequences. However, the underlying mechanism of how transgenerational effects occur as part of environmental chemical exposure are not well understood. We investigated the potential molecular changes associated with dibutyl phthalate exposure that induced transgenerational effects, using a rat model. Through the analysis of the Gene Expression Omnibus database, we found some similar studies of environmental exposure induced transgenerational effects. Then, we analyzed one of the studies and our results to identify the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. This gene participated the most of the pathways and was upregulated in both studies. We used the miRWALK data set to predict the microRNAs which targeted the APC gene. We confirmed the miR-30 family were significantly downregulated in F3 testis tissues and targeted the APC gene. In conclusion, the miR-30 family/APC interaction is a potential mechanism for the transgenerational effects induced by the environmental chemical.

Expression of miR-30c and BCL-9 in gastric carcinoma tissues and their function in the development of gastric cancer

microRNA-30c (miR-30c) is a member of the miR-30s family, which is known to serve important roles in the occurrence and development of numerous tumor types. Our previous microarray analysis of extracted RNA from tissue samples was conducted to examine the expression of miR-30c and predict miR-30c target genes. In the present study, it was determined that the expression of miR-30c was differentially expressed in 82 paired gastric cancer (GC) and paracancerous tissues. Cellular expression of miR-30c in two GC cell lines MKN-45, MKN-74 and one non-cancer cell line GES-1 was modified using the miR-30c-mimic and miR-30c-inhibitor reagents, in a series of transfection experiments. Following transfection of cancer and non-cancer cell lines with the miR-30c-mimic, cell proliferation and apoptosis rates were increased. Compared with the NC group, MKN-74 cell proliferation was significantly inhibited (P<0.05) following transfection with the miR-30c-mimic at 48 and 24 h, GES-1 was significantly inhibited (P<0.05) at 24 and 48 h, and apoptosis was significantly reduced in transfected MKN-74 cells (P<0.05). The clinicopathological data and the expression of BCL-9 and miR-30c in patients with GC were used to identify associations. The expression levels of miR-30c were associated with age. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the BCL-9 expression levels in MKN-74 cells were higher following transfection with the miR-30c-mimic, and were lower following transfection with the miR-30c-inhibitor, both compared with the negative control group. It was concluded that compared with the negative control group, the expression of miR-30c was low in GC tissues and may be involved in GC development via regulation of proliferation, apoptosis and the cell cycle.

miRNA-30 Family Members Inhibit Breast Cancer Invasion, Osteomimicry, and Bone Destruction by Directly Targeting Multiple Bone Metastasis-Associated Genes

miRNAs are master regulators of gene expression that play key roles in cancer metastasis. During bone metastasis, metastatic tumor cells must rewire their biology and express genes that are normally expressed by bone cells (a process called osteomimicry), which endow tumor cells with full competence for outgrowth in the bone marrow. Here, we establish miR-30 family members miR-30a, miR-30b, miR-30c, miR-30d, and miR-30e as suppressors of breast cancer bone metastasis that regulate multiple pathways, including osteomimicry. Low expression of miR-30 in primary tumors from patients with breast cancer were associated with poor relapse-free survival. In addition, estrogen receptor (ER)-negative/progesterone receptor (PR)-negative breast cancer cells expressed lower miR-30 levels than their ER/PR-positive counterparts. Overexpression of miR-30 in ER/PR-negative breast cancer cells resulted in the reduction of bone metastasis burden in vivoIn vitro, miR-30 did not affect tumor cell proliferation, but did inhibit tumor cell invasion. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-30 restored bone homeostasis by reversing the effects of tumor cell-conditioned medium on osteoclastogenesis and osteoblastogenesis. A number of genes associated with osteoclastogenesis stimulation (IL8, IL11), osteoblastogenesis inhibition (DKK-1), tumor cell osteomimicry (RUNX2, CDH11), and invasiveness (CTGF, ITGA5, ITGB3) were identified as targets for repression by miR-30. Among these genes, silencing CDH11 or ITGA5 in ER-/PR-negative breast cancer cells recapitulated inhibitory effects of miR-30 on skeletal tumor burden in vivo Overall, our findings provide evidence that miR-30 family members employ multiple mechanisms to impede breast cancer bone metastasis and may represent attractive targets for therapeutic intervention.Significance: These findings suggest miR-30 family members may serve as an effective means to therapeutically attenuate metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer. Cancer Res; 78(18); 5259-73. ©2018 AACR.

Identification of hub genes with prognostic values in gastric cancer by bioinformatics analysis

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent malignant cancer of digestive system. To identify key genes in GC, mRNA microarray GSE27342, GSE29272, and GSE33335 were downloaded from GEO database.

Methods

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained using GEO2R. DAVID database was used to analyze function and pathways enrichment of DEGs. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established by STRING and visualized by Cytoscape software. Then, the influence of hub genes on overall survival (OS) was performed by the Kaplan-Meier plotter online tool. Module analysis of the PPI network was performed using MCODE. Additionally, potential stem loop miRNAs of hub genes were predicted by miRecords and screened by TCGA dataset. Transcription factors (TFs) of hub genes were detected by NetworkAnalyst.

Results

In total, 67 DEGs were identified; upregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in biological process (BP) related to angiogenesis and extracellular matrix organization and the downregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in BP related to ion transport and response to bacterium. KEGG pathways analysis showed that the upregulated DEGs were enriched in ECM-receptor interaction and the downregulated DEGs were enriched in gastric acid secretion. A PPI network of DEGs was constructed, consisting of 43 nodes and 87 edges. Twelve genes were considered as hub genes owing to high degrees in the network. Hsa-miR-29c, hsa-miR-30c, hsa-miR-335, hsa-miR-33b, and hsa-miR-101 might play a crucial role in hub genes regulation. In addition, the transcription factors-hub genes pairs were displayed with 182 edges and 102 nodes. The high expression of 7 out of 12 hub genes was associated with worse OS, including COL4A1, VCAN, THBS2, TIMP1, COL1A2, SERPINH1, and COL6A3.

Conclusions

The miRNA and TFs regulation network of hub genes in GC may promote understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of gastric cancer and provide potential targets for GC diagnosis and treatment.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12957-018-1409-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Downregulation of miR-1266-5P, miR-185-5P and miR-30c-2 in prostatic cancer tissue and cell lines

Over the latest decade, the role of microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) has received more attention. miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that may serve a role as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. Certain miRNAs regulate the apoptosis pathway by influencing pro- or anti-apoptotic genes. We hypothesized that increases in the expression of B cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) and BCL2-like 1 (BCL2L1) genes, which have been reported in various types of cancer tissues, may be due to the downregulation of certain miRNAs. The present study aimed to identify miRNAs that target BCL2 and BCL2L1 anti-apoptotic genes in prostate cancer (PCa) clinical tissue samples. Certain candidate miRNAs were selected bioinformatically and their expression in PCa samples was analyzed and compared with that in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) tissue samples. The candidate miRNAs that targeted BCL2 and BCL2L1 genes were searched in online databases (miRWalk, microRNA.org, miRDB and TargetScan). A total of 12 miRNAs that target the 3'-untranslated region of the aforementioned genes and/or for which downregulation of their expression has previously been reported in cancer tissues. A total of 30 tumor tissue samples from patients with PCa and 30 samples tissues from patients with BPH were obtained and were subjected to reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction for expression analysis of 12 candidate miRNAs, and the BCL2 and BCL2L1 genes. Additionally, expression of 3 finally selected miRNAs and genes was evaluated in prostate cancer PC3 and DU145 cell lines and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Among 12 miRNA candidates, the expression of miR-1266, miR-185 and miR-30c-2 was markedly downregulated in PCa tumor tissues and cell lines. Furthermore, downregulation of these miRNAs was associated with upregulation of the BCL2 and BCL2L1 genes. An inverse association between three miRNAs (miR-1266, miR-185 and miR-30c-2) and two anti-apoptotic genes (BCL2 and BCL2L1) may be considered for interventional miRNA therapy of PCa.

MicroRNA-30c functions as a tumor suppressor via targeting SNAI1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Aberrant expression of miRNAs was involved in tumor initiation, progression and metastasis in multiple cancers. Many kinds of microRNAs in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have been researched, whereas miR-30c has not been included.

METHODS

Firstly, we explored the expression of miR-30c in ESCC tissue and serum samples and its relations to the survival. To further investigate its effects on ESCC cells, we completed a series of experiments. We detected the effects of ectopic miR-30c expression on the proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCC cells in vitro. We identified the target role of SNAI1 in ESCC using Dual-luciferase reporter assay and western blot assay.

RESULTS

The results showed miR-30c was significant down-regulated in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Clinically, we found lower miR-30c expression was significantly correlated with worse ESCC progression and survival. Also we clarified that miR-30c suppressed cell proliferation, invasion and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of ESCC cell lines. What's more, we figured out that miR-30c inhibits ESCC biological behaviors and EMT progress by directly binding to the 3'-UTR of SNAI1.

CONCLUSION

This study provides new insight into the mechanism responsible for the development of human ESCC. Therefore, miR-30c could be a promising biomarker and a therapeutic target for ESCC in the future.

Role of microRNA in the detection, progression, and intervention of acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury, characterized by sharply decreased renal function, is a common and important complication in hospitalized patients. The pathological mechanism of acute kidney injury is mainly related to immune activation and inflammation. Given the high morbidity and mortality rates of hospitalized patients with acute kidney injury, the identification of biomarkers useful for assessing risk, making an early diagnosis, evaluating the prognosis, and classifying the injury severity is urgently needed. Furthermore, investigation into the development of acute kidney injury and potential therapeutic targets is required. While microRNA was first discovered in Caenorhabditis elegans, Gary Ruvkun's laboratory identified the first microRNA target gene. Together, these two important findings confirmed the existence of a novel post-transcriptional gene regulatory mechanism. Considering that serum creatinine tests often fail in the early detection of AKI, testing for microRNAs as early diagnostic biomarkers has shown great potential. Numerous studies have identified microRNAs that can serve as biomarkers for the detection of acute kidney injury. In addition, as microRNAs can control the expression of multiple proteins through hundreds or thousands of targets influencing multiple signaling pathways, the number of studies on the functions of microRNAs in AKI progression is increasing. Here, we mainly focus on research into microRNAs as biomarkers and explorations of their functions in acute kidney injury. Impact statement Firstly, we have discussed the potential advantages and limitations of miRNA as biomarkers. Secondly, we have summarized the role of miRNA in the progress of AKI. Finally, we have made a vision of miRNA's potential and advantages as therapeutic target intervention AKI.

Down-regulation of miR-30a-3p/5p promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell proliferation by activating the Wnt signaling pathway

AIM

To investigate the potential role of microRNA-30a (miR-30a) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

METHODS

Expression of miR-30a-3p/5p was analyzed using microarray data and fresh ESCC tissue samples. Both in vitro and in vivo assays were used to investigate the effects of miR-30a-3p/5p on ESCC cell proliferation. Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis was performed to explore underlying mechanisms involved in ESCC, and then, assays were carried out to verify the potential molecular mechanism of miR-30a in ESCC.

RESULTS

Low expression of miR-30a-3p/5p was closely associated with advanced ESCC progression and poor prognosis of patients with ESCC. Knock-down of miR-30a-3p/5p promoted ESCC cell proliferation. Increased miR-30a-3p/5p expression inhibited the Wnt signaling pathway by targeting Wnt2 and Fzd2.

CONCLUSION

Down-regulation of miR-30a-3p/5p promotes ESCC cell proliferation by activating the Wnt signaling pathway through inhibition of Wnt2 and Fzd2.

MicroRNAs in the etiology of colorectal cancer: pathways and clinical implications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small single-stranded RNAs that repress mRNA translation and trigger mRNA degradation. Of the ∼1900 miRNA-encoding genes present in the human genome, ∼250 miRNAs are reported to have changes in abundance or altered functions in colorectal cancer. Thousands of studies have documented aberrant miRNA levels in colorectal cancer, with some miRNAs reported to actively regulate tumorigenesis. A recurrent phenomenon with miRNAs is their frequent participation in feedback loops, which probably serve to reinforce or magnify biological outcomes to manifest a particular cellular phenotype. Here, we review the roles of oncogenic miRNAs (oncomiRs), tumor suppressive miRNAs (anti-oncomiRs) and miRNA regulators in colorectal cancer. Given their stability in patient-derived samples and ease of detection with standard and novel techniques, we also discuss the potential use of miRNAs as biomarkers in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer and as prognostic indicators of this disease. MiRNAs also represent attractive candidates for targeted therapies because their function can be manipulated through the use of synthetic antagonists and miRNA mimics.

Summary: This Review provides an overview of some important microRNAs and their roles in colorectal cancer.

Downregulation of miR-30a is associated with proliferation and invasion via targeting MEF2D in cervical cancer

Accumulating studies have revealed that microRNAs serve crucial roles in cancer development and progression. MicroRNA-30a (miR-30a) has been implicated in various cancer types. However, the role of miR-30a in cervical cancer remains unclear. In the current study, a reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay revealed that miR-30a was significantly downregulated in cervical cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues, and in the cervical cancer cell lines HeLa, SiHa and Ca-Ski compared with GH329 normal cervical epithelial cells. A functional assay using miR-30a mimic demonstrated that miR-30a could inhibit the growth and invasion of cervical cancer cells. Additionally, bioinformatics-based prediction and luciferase reporter assays indicated that MEF2D is a direct target of miR-30a. Transfection with miR-30a reduced the mRNA expression and protein levels of MEF2D, as determined using RT-qPCR and western blot analyses. Furthermore, MEF2D expression was negatively correlated with that of miR-30a in cervical cancers. Overall, the present study demonstrated that miR-30a functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting MEF2D in cervical cancer, which may provide the basis for a prognostic biomarker or therapeutic strategy for cervical cancer.

Overexpression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 21 is associated with motility, metastasis, and poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Cell motility plays an important role in intrahepatic metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and predicts poor prognosis in patients. The present study investigated the role of a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) in HCC, since these proteins are known to be associated with cell motility. We confirmed the expression of 12 ADAMs with putative metalloproteinase activity in HCC cells, and established a KYN-2 HCC cell line stably expressing short interfering RNA against ADAM21 to investigate the effect of ADAM21 deficiency on HCC cell motility and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. We also examined ADAM21 expression in a cohort of 119 HCC patients by immunohistochemistry. ADAM21 was overexpressed in KYN-2 cells, and its knockdown reduced invasion, migration, proliferation, and metastasis relative to controls. In clinical specimens, ADAM21 positivity was associated with vascular invasion, large tumor size, high histological grade, and lower overall and recurrence-free survival as compared to cases that were negative for ADAM21 expression. A multivariate analysis revealed that ADAM21 positivity was an independent risk factor for overall (P = 0.003) and recurrence-free (P = 0.001) survival. These results suggest that ADAM21 plays a role in HCC metastasis and can serve as a prognostic marker for disease progression.

MiR-145 inhibits the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition via targeting ADAM19 in human glioblastoma

In recent years, increasing studies demonstrated that miR-145 plays a tumor suppressor role in many human cancers. In the present study, we evaluated the expression of miR-145 and A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 19 (ADAM19) in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tissues and cells. Furthermore, we investigated the mechanisms underlying miR-145/ADAM19-induced GBM biology. Here, we found that miR-145 expression was down-regulated, while ADAM19 expression was up-regulated in GBM tissues and cells. Moreover, miR-145 mimics repressed U87 and U251 cell proliferation, migration and invasion. miR-145 mimics also inhibited the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of U87 and U251 cells. Mechanically, the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) of ADAM19 mRNA was a direct target for miR-145. In addition, ADAM19 over-expression also partially abrogated miR-145-inhibited EMT. In conclusion, this work suggested that high miR-145 expression inhibited EMT of GBM cells by targeting ADAM19. Thus miR-145/ADAM19 can be suggested as a novel target for GBM patients.

Identification of a sixteen-microRNA signature as prognostic biomarker for stage II and III colon cancer

Despite advances in colon cancer research and novel therapies, high risk of recurrence remains a major challenge. This study reports miRNA expression profiling as a biomarker for the prognosis of TNM stage II and III colon cancer.

Fresh frozen biopsies from the study cohort (N=111) were analyzed for miRNA by RT-qPCR and LASSO regression analysis was used to build a classifier of miRNAs. The prognostic accuracy was tested and the classifier was validated in an independent colon cohort (TCGA-COAD, N=209).

The LASSO regression analysis identified a 16-miRNA signature including miR-143-5p, miR-27a-3p, miR-31-5p, miR-181a-5p, miR-30b-5p, miR-30d-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-23a-3p, miR-150-5p, miR-210-3p, miR-25-3p, miR-196a-5p, miR-148a-3p, miR-222-3p, miR-30c-5p and miR-223-3p. A low 16-miRNA signature was associated with better 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) in the study cohort than a high signature (93 % versus 58 %; p< 0.001). The signature was an independent prognostic factor for better 5-year DFS in multivariate analyses (HR 21.4; 95% CI: 4.21-108.7; p< 0.001). The results in the validation cohort were consistent with the study cohort in univariate (77 % versus 65 %; p= 0.045) and multivariate analyses (HR 2.0; 95% CI: 1.04-3.89; p=0.039).

We identified a 16-miRNA signature as a reliable prognostic biomarker for classification of colon cancer stage II and III patients into groups with low and high risk for recurrence.

Changes of Microrna Levels in Plasma of Patients with Rectal Cancer during Chemoradiotherapy

Since the response to chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer is heterogeneous, valid biomarkers are needed to monitor tumor response. Circulating microRNAs are promising candidates, however analyses of circulating microRNAs in rectal cancer are still rare. 111 patients with rectal cancer and 46 age-matched normal controls were enrolled. The expression levels of 30 microRNAs were analyzed in 17 pre-treatment patients’ plasma samples. Differentially regulated microRNAs were validated in 94 independent patients. For 52 of the 94 patients a paired comparison between pre-treatment and post-treatment samples was performed. miR-17, miR-18b, miR-20a, miR-31, and miR-193a_3p, were significantly downregulated in pre-treatment plasma samples of patients with rectal cancer (p < 0.05). miR-29c, miR-30c, and miR-195 showed a trend of differential regulation. After validation, miR-31 and miR-30c were significantly deregulated by a decrease of expression. In 52 patients expression analyses of the 8 microRNAs in matched pre-treatment and post-treatment samples showed a significant decrease for all microRNAs (p < 0.05) after treatment. Expression levels of miR-31 and miR-30c could serve as valid biomarkers if validated in a prospective study. Plasma microRNA expression levels do not necessarily represent miRNA expression levels in tumor tissue. Also, expression levels of microRNAs change during multimodal therapy.

MicroRNAs: Potential candidates for diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is known as the third common cancer worldwide and an important public health problem in different populations. Several genetics and environmental risk factors are involved in the development and progression of CRC including chromosomal abnormalities, epigenetic alterations, and unhealthy lifestyle. Identification of risk factors and biomarkers could lead to a better understanding of molecular pathways involved in CRC pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulatory molecules which could affect a variety of cellular and molecular targets in CRC. A large number of studies have indicated deregulations of some known tissue-specific miRNAs, for example, miR-21, miR-9, miR-155, miR-17, miR-19, let-7, and miR-24 as well as circulating miRNAs, for example, miR-181b, miR-21, miR-183, let-7g, miR-17, and miR-126, in patients with CRC. In the current review, we focus on the findings of preclinical and clinical studies performed on tissue-specific and circulating miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the detection of patients at various stages of CRC.

Genetic variation and RNA structure regulate microRNA biogenesis

MiRNA biogenesis is highly regulated at the post-transcriptional level; however, the role of sequence and secondary RNA structure in this process has not been extensively studied. A single G to A substitution present in the terminal loop of pri-mir-30c-1 in breast and gastric cancer patients had been previously described to result in increased levels of mature miRNA. Here, we report that this genetic variant directly affects Drosha-mediated processing of pri-mir-30c-1 in vitro and in cultured cells. Structural analysis of this variant revealed an altered RNA structure that facilitates the interaction with SRSF3, an SR protein family member that promotes pri-miRNA processing. Our results are compatible with a model whereby a genetic variant in pri-mir-30c-1 leads to a secondary RNA structure rearrangement that facilitates binding of SRSF3 resulting in increased levels of miR-30c. These data highlight that primary sequence determinants and RNA structure are key regulators of miRNA biogenesis.

Urinary MicroRNA-30c-5p and MicroRNA-192-5p as potential biomarkers of ischemia-reperfusion-induced kidney injury

Early detection of acute kidney injury is difficult due to lack of known biomarkers; previous studies have tried to identify new biomarkers for detecting acute kidney injury at an early stage. MicroRNA, a 21-23 nucleotide noncoding RNA molecule, has emerged as a desirable marker in the diagnosis and prognosis of various diseases. This study aims to identify the expression profile of microRNA in ischemia-reperfusion-induced kidney injury and determine the possibility of using the candidate microRNA as biomarker for the detection of I/R-induced kidney injury. Based on the established rat model of I/R-induced kidney injury, a microarray analysis of rat urine was performed at the beginning of operation (0 h) as well as 72 h post operation. To validate the results, urine samples from 71 patients who underwent cardiac surgery were collected, after which urinalysis was conducted to determine the microRNA concentration. An alternative expression profile of microRNAs was detected in rat urine. The quantitative validation of microRNA showed that the expression of miR-30c-5p, miR-192-5p, and miR-378a-3p was elevated significantly in urine post operation, which was consistent with those of the microarray analysis and earlier than kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). In patients with acute kidney injury, increased levels of miR-30c-5p and miR-192-5p were also detected 2 h post operation, and miR-30c-5p showed preferable diagnostic value compared with protein-based biomarkers. In conclusion, an aberrant expression profile of microRNA was detected in rat urine based on the established ischemia-reperfusion animal model. Both miR-30c-5p and miR-192-5p served as important potential diagnostic markers for I/R-induced kidney injury. Impact statement Firstly, one differentiating factor in our study is that the candidate miRNAs were screened in a controlled animal model rather than in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) to ensure the purity of the cause of disease and to avoid possible effects of comorbidities on the spectrum of urine miRNA. This ensured the presence of only the relevant candidate miRNA (that associated with I/R injury); and what's more, the alterative expression of miR-192-5p and miR-30c-5p in animal model, patients with AKI, and cell model was confirmed simultaneously, which is likely to be more convincing. Secondly, the candidate miRNAs were screened sequentially at regular time points, which covered the initiation, progression, and partial repair stages, thus ensuring that no significant miRNAs were omitted in the screening process, and miR-biomarkers in 2 h post operation showed preferable diagnostic performance.

Predicting MicroRNA Biomarkers for Cancer Using Phylogenetic Tree and Microarray Analysis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are shown to be involved in the initiation and progression of cancers in the literature, and the expression of miRNAs is used as an important cancer prognostic tool. The aim of this study is to predict high-confidence miRNA biomarkers for cancer. We adopt a method that combines miRNA phylogenetic structure and miRNA microarray data analysis to discover high-confidence miRNA biomarkers for colon, prostate, pancreatic, lung, breast, bladder and kidney cancers. There are 53 miRNAs selected through this method that either have potential to involve a single cancer's development or to involve several cancers' development. These miRNAs can be used as high-confidence miRNA biomarkers of these seven investigated cancers for further experiment validation. miR-17, miR-20, miR-106a, miR-106b, miR-92, miR-25, miR-16, miR-195 and miR-143 are selected to involve a single cancer's development in these seven cancers. They have the potential to be useful miRNA biomarkers when the result can be confirmed by experiments.

miR-30 family promotes migratory and invasive abilities in CD133(+) pancreatic cancer stem-like cells

Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with a poor prognosis. Recently, miRNAs have been reported to be abnormally expressed in several cancers and play a role in cancer development and progression. However, the role of miRNA in cancer stem cells remains unclear. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the role of miRNA in the CD133(+) pancreatic cancer cell line Capan-1M9 because CD133 is a putative marker of pancreatic cancer stem cells. Using miRNA microarray, we found that the expression level of the miR-30 family decreased in CD133 genetic knockdown shCD133 Capan-1M9 cells. We focused on miR-30a, -30b, and -30c in the miR-30 family and created pancreatic cancer cell sublines, each transfected with these miRNAs. High expression of miR-30a, -30b, or -30c had no effect on cell proliferation and sphere forming. In contrast, these sublines were resistant to gemcitabine, which is a standard anticancer drug for pancreatic cancer, and in addition, promoted migration and invasion. Moreover, mesenchymal markers were up-regulated by these miRNAs, suggesting that mesenchymal phenotype is associated with an increase in migration and invasion. Thus, our study demonstrated that high expression of the miR-30 family modulated by CD133 promotes migratory and invasive abilities in CD133(+) pancreatic cancer cells. These findings suggest that targeted therapies to the miR-30 family contribute to the development of novel therapies for CD133(+) pancreatic cancer stem cells.

MiR-145 suppressed human retinoblastoma cell proliferation and invasion by targeting ADAM19

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in retinoblastoma (RB) initiation and progression, aberrant expression of miR-145 had been frequently reported in cancer studies. However, the role and mechanism of its function in RB is still unclear. In this study, our data showed that miR-145 was downregulated in RB tissues and cell lines. Overexpression of miR-145 suppressed RB cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. ADAM19 was identified as a direct target of miR-145. Silencing of ADAM19 significantly inhibited RB cell proliferation, migration and invasion. In addition, a reverse correlation between miR-145 and ADAM19 expression was noted in RB tissues. Taken together, these findings suggested that miR-145 functions as a tumor suppressor in RB by directly targeting ADAM19. miR-145 could be an anticancer therapeutic target for RB patients.

Enhanced protein production by microRNA-30 family in CHO cells is mediated by the modulation of the ubiquitin pathway

Functional genomics represent a valuable approach to improve culture performance of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines for biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Recent advances in applied microRNA (miRNAs) research suggest that these small non-coding RNAs are critical for the regulation of cell phenotypes in CHO cells. However, the notion that individual miRNAs usually control the expression of hundreds of different genes makes miRNA target identification highly complex. We have recently reported that the entire miR-30 family enhances recombinant protein production in CHO cells. To better understand the pro-productive effects of this miRNA family, we set out to identify their downstream target genes in CHO cells. Computational target prediction combined with a comprehensive functional validation enabled the discovery of a set of twenty putative target genes for all productivity enhancing miR-30 family members. We demonstrate that all miR-30 isoforms contribute to the regulation of the ubiquitin pathway in CHO cells by directly targeting the ubiquitin E3 ligase S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2). Finally, we provide several lines of evidence that miR-30-mediated modulation of the ubiquitin pathway may enhance recombinant protein expression in CHO cells. In summary, this study supports the importance of non-coding RNAs, especially of miRNAs, in the context of cell line engineering.

MicroRNAs as potential drug targets for therapeutic intervention in colorectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small (19 - 22 nucleotide), non-protein-coding RNA segments that function as master regulators of hundreds of genes simultaneously in both normal and malignant cells. In colorectal cancer (CRC) miRNAs are deregulated and have critical roles in initiation and progression of CRC by interacting with various oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes including APC, KRAS and p53, or by modulating downstream signal transduction pathways. Numerous promising miRNAs have emerged as potential drug targets for therapeutic intervention and possible candidates for replacement therapy in CRC.

AREAS COVERED

In this review the authors summarize the available information on miRNAs and their role in CRC. The authors point out specific miRNAs as potential drug targets and those having a significant role in gene activation and gene silencing during the process of CRC development, to highlight their importance as possible therapeutic candidates for the treatment of CRC.

EXPERT OPINION

Targeting miRNAs provides an emerging opportunity to develop effective miRNA-based replacement therapy or antagonists to alter expression in colon cancer patient tumors. However, the biggest challenge is to overcome obstacles associated with pharmacokinetics, delivery and toxicity in order to translate the potential of miRNAs into efficacious anticancer drugs.