Down-regulation of miR-129-5p via the Twist1-Snail feedback loop stimulates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer

Pivotal Role of miRNA-lncRNA Interactions in Human Diseases

New technologies have shown that most of the genome comprises transcripts that cannot code for proteins and are referred to as non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Some ncRNAs, like long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), are of substantial interest because of their critical function in controlling genes and numerous biological activities. The expression levels and function of miRNAs and lncRNAs are rigorously monitored throughout developmental processes and the maintenance of physiological homeostasis. Due to their critical roles, any dysregulation or changes in their expression can significantly influence the pathogenesis of various human diseases. The interactions between miRNAs and lncRNAs have been found to influence gene expression in various ways. These interactions significantly influence the understanding of disease etiology, cellular processes, and potential therapeutic targets. Different experimental and in silico methods can be used to investigate miRNA-lncRNA interactions. By aiding the elucidation of miRNA-lncRNA interactions and deepening the understanding of post-transcriptional gene regulation, researchers can open a new window for designing hypotheses, conducting experiments, and discovering methods for diagnosing and treating complex human diseases. This review briefly summarizes miRNA and lncRNA functions, discusses their interaction mechanisms, and examines the experimental and computational methods used to study these interactions. Additionally, we highlight significant studies on lncRNA and miRNA interactions in various diseases from 2000 to 2024, using the academic research databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus.

Unique miRomics Expression Profiles in Tannerella forsythia-Infected Mandibles during Periodontitis Using Machine Learning

T. forsythia is a subgingival periodontal bacterium constituting the subgingival pathogenic polymicrobial milieu during periodontitis (PD). miRNAs play a pivotal role in maintaining periodontal tissue homeostasis at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic levels. The aim of this study was to characterize the global microRNAs (miRNA, miR) expression kinetics in 8- and 16-week-old T. forsythia-infected C57BL/6J mouse mandibles and to identify the miRNA bacterial biomarkers of disease process at specific time points. We examined the differential expression (DE) of miRNAs in mouse mandibles (n = 10) using high-throughput NanoString nCounter® miRNA expression panels, which provided significant advantages over specific candidate miRNA or pathway analyses. All the T. forsythia-infected mice at two specific time points showed bacterial colonization (100%) in the gingival surface, along with a significant increase in alveolar bone resorption (ABR) (p < 0.0001). We performed a NanoString analysis of specific miRNA signatures, miRNA target pathways, and gene network analysis. A total of 115 miRNAs were DE in the mandible tissue during 8 and 16 weeks The T. forsythia infection, compared with sham infection, and the majority (99) of DE miRNAs were downregulated. nCounter miRNA expression kinetics identified 67 downregulated miRNAs (e.g., miR-375, miR-200c, miR-200b, miR-34b-5p, miR-141) during an 8-week infection, whereas 16 upregulated miRNAs (e.g., miR-1902, miR-let-7c, miR-146a) and 32 downregulated miRNAs (e.g., miR-2135, miR-720, miR-376c) were identified during a 16-week infection. Two miRNAs, miR-375 and miR-200c, were highly downregulated with >twofold change during an 8-week infection. Six miRNAs in the 8-week infection (miR-200b, miR-141, miR-205, miR-423-3p, miR-141-3p, miR-34a-5p) and two miRNAs in the 16-week infection (miR-27a-3p, miR-15a-5p) that were downregulated have also been reported in the gingival tissue and saliva of periodontitis patients. This preclinical in vivo study identified T. forsythia-specific miRNAs (miR-let-7c, miR-210, miR-146a, miR-423-5p, miR-24, miR-218, miR-26b, miR-23a-3p) and these miRs have also been reported in the gingival tissues and saliva of periodontitis patients. Further, several DE miRNAs that are significantly upregulated (e.g., miR-101b, miR-218, miR-127, miR-24) are also associated with many systemic diseases such as atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, diabetes, obesity, and several cancers. In addition to DE analysis, we utilized the XGBoost (eXtreme Gradient boost) and Random Forest machine learning (ML) algorithms to assess the impact that the number of miRNA copies has on predicting whether a mouse is infected. XGBoost found that miR-339-5p was most predictive for mice infection at 16 weeks. miR-592-5p was most predictive for mice infection at 8 weeks and also when the 8-week and 16-week results were grouped together. Random Forest predicted miR-592 as most predictive at 8 weeks as well as the combined 8-week and 16-week results, but miR-423-5p was most predictive at 16 weeks. In conclusion, the expression levels of miR-375 and miR-200c family differed significantly during disease process, and these miRNAs establishes a link between T. forsythia and development of periodontitis genesis, offering new insights regarding the pathobiology of this bacterium.

The Expression Levels of Circulating miR-129 and miR-203a in Association with Breast Cancer and Related Metastasis

Background

A significant part of deaths related to breast cancer is the result of invasion to other organs. It is essential to discover new non-invasive biomarkers to improve anticipation of recurrence risk in breast cancer patients. In this study, the plasma levels of miR-129 and miR-203a were evaluated to investigate their diagnostic potential in breast cancer and its metastasis.

Methods

In this case-control study, conducted in Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran, in 2019, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma blood samples were divided into 3 groups based on their stages as I, II/III, IV. Each group contained 30 individuals. We also recruited 30 normal individuals as a control group. Real-Time PCR was conducted to evaluate miR-129 and miR-203a expression levels. The discriminatory ability of the evaluated plasma miRNAs was assessed by ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) curves in breast cancer diagnosis and its metastasis.

Results

MiR-129 and miR-203a expression levels were significantly downregulated in breast cancer. Reducing tendency was observed in the mentioned miRNAs from less to more invasive stages. The expression level of miR-129 was decreased in metastatic than non-metastatic patients and it was significantly related to metastasis. A significant association between miR-129 expression level and lymph node status was also observed (P=0.04). Evaluation of ROC curves revealed that miR-129 and miR-203a were able to discriminate breast cancer fairly and poorly respectively. The ability of miR-129 in the diagnosis of breast cancer metastasis was poor.

Conclusion

MiR-129 and miR-203a may both act as tumor suppressor miRNAs. Our results need further evidence in a large population to be confirmed as diagnostic markers.

Review article epithelial to mesenchymal transition‑associated microRNAs in breast cancer

Despite major advances, breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed carcinoma and remains a deadly disease among women worldwide. Many researchers point toward an important role of an epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in BC development and promoting metastasis. Here, will be discussed that how functional changes of transcription factors, signaling pathways, and microRNAs (miRNA) in BC promote EMT. A thorough understanding the EMT biology can be important to determine reversing the process and design treatment approaches. There are frequent debates as to whether EMT is really relevant to BC in vivo, in which due to the intrinsic heterogeneity and tumor microenvironment. Nevertheless, given the importance of EMT in cancer progression and metastasis, the implementation of therapies against cancer-associated EMT will continue to help us develop and test potential treatments.

Regulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in hypoxia by the HIF-1α network

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a significant role in cancer metastasis. A series of models have focused on EMT regulation by TGF-β network. However, how EMT is regulated under hypoxia is less understood. We developed a model of HIF-1α network to explore the potential link between EMT and the network topology. Our results revealed that three positive feedback loops, composed of HIF-1α and its three targets SNAIL, TWIST, and miR-210, should be sequentially activated to induce EMT under aggravating hypoxia. We suggested that the number of the positive feedback loops is critical for determining the number of stable states in EMT. Our work may advance the understanding of the significance of network topology in the regulation of EMT.

Methanol extract of Sedum oryzifolium and its constituent, trehalose, impede the invasiveness of oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines via downregulation of Slug

BACKGROUND

Sedum species are reported to possess diverse pharmacological activities in various solid tumors. However, the anticancer functions of Sedum orizyfolium and its constituents have never been determined in human cancers.

PURPOSE

The present study focused on addressing the inhibition efficacy of the methanol extract of S. orizyfolium (MESO) and its constituents and the molecular mechanism underlying invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

After MESO treatment, a wound-healing assay, an invasion assay, and immunocytochemistry were performed in OSCC cell lines, coupled with in silico analysis and immunohistochemistry in OSCC patient samples, to investigate the role of the EMT transcription factor Slug. Trehalose, an active component of MESO, was identified through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Among the methanol extracts of 18 various wild plants from South Korea, MESO exhibited the highest anticancer functionality in OSCC cells by downregulating Slug expression. In silico analysis and immunohistochemistry indicated that elevated Slug levels are remarkably associated with tumor progression and invasion in patients with OSCC, suggesting that changes in Slug expression alter EMT progression and invasion in OSCC. Notably, treatment with trehalose, a sugar component of MESO, inhibited invasiveness and Slug expression in OSCC cells.

CONCLUSION

Cumulatively, this study highlighted the beneficial role of MESO and trehalose in the inhibition of invasiveness of OSCC cells via suppression of Slug expression and suggested a new design for potential chemotherapeutic drugs against OSCC.

The role of miR-129-5p in cancer: a novel therapeutic target

MiRNA-129-5p belongs to the microRNA-129 (miRNA-129) family. MiRNA-129-5p is expressed in many tissues and organs of the human body, and it regulates a wide range of biological functions. The abnormal expression of miRNA-129-5p is related to the occurrence and development of a variety of malignant tumors. MiRNA-129-5p plays an important role in the tumorigenesis process and functions by promoting or inhibiting tumors. However, the role of miRNA-129-5p in cancer remains controversial. This article reviews the different biological functions of miRNA-129-5p in cancer and provides ideas for research in this field to guide the development of targeted therapies and drugs for malignant tumors.

Non-coding RNAs related to angiogenesis in gynecological cancer

Gynecological cancer affects the female reproductive system, including ovarian, uterine, endometrial, cervical, vulvar, and vaginal tumors. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), and in particular microRNAs, function as regulatory molecules, which can control gene expression in a post-transcriptional manner. Normal physiological processes like cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and pathological processes such as oncogenesis and metastasis are regulated by microRNAs. Numerous reports have shown a direct role of microRNAs in the modulation of angiogenesis in gynecological cancer, via targeting pro-angiogenic factors and signaling pathways. Understanding the molecular mechanism involved in the regulation of angiogenesis by microRNAs may lead to new treatment options. Recently the regulatory role of some long non-coding RNAs in gynecological cancer has also been explored, but the information on this function is more limited. The aim of this article is to explore the pathways responsible for angiogenesis, and to what extent ncRNAs may be employed as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in gynecological cancer.

MiRNA-mediated EMT and CSCs in cancer chemoresistance

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small group of cancer cells, which contribute to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Cancer cells undergoing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) acquire the chemoresistant ability, which is regarded as an important feature of CSCs. Thus, there emerges an opinion that the generation of CSCs is considered to be driven by EMT. In this complex process, microRNAs (miRNAs) are found to play a key role. In order to overcome the drug resistance, inhibiting EMT as well as CSCs phenotype seem feasible. Thereinto, regulating the EMT- or CSCs-associated miRNAs is a crucial approach. Herein, we conduct this review to elaborate on the complicated interplay between EMT and CSCs in cancer chemoresistance, which is modulated by miRNAs. In addition, we elucidate the therapeutic strategy to overcome drug resistance through targeting EMT and CSCs.

Regulation of breast cancer metastasis signaling by miRNAs

Despite the decline in death rate from breast cancer and recent advances in targeted therapies and combinations for the treatment of metastatic disease, metastatic breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-associated death in U.S. women. The invasion-metastasis cascade involves a number of steps and multitudes of proteins and signaling molecules. The pathways include invasion, intravasation, circulation, extravasation, infiltration into a distant site to form a metastatic niche, and micrometastasis formation in a new environment. Each of these processes is regulated by changes in gene expression. Noncoding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in breast cancer tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis by post-transcriptional regulation of target gene expression. miRNAs can stimulate oncogenesis (oncomiRs), inhibit tumor growth (tumor suppressors or miRsupps), and regulate gene targets in metastasis (metastamiRs). The goal of this review is to summarize some of the key miRNAs that regulate genes and pathways involved in metastatic breast cancer with an emphasis on estrogen receptor α (ERα+) breast cancer. We reviewed the identity, regulation, human breast tumor expression, and reported prognostic significance of miRNAs that have been documented to directly target key genes in pathways, including epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributing to the metastatic cascade. We critically evaluated the evidence for metastamiRs and their targets and miRNA regulation of metastasis suppressor genes in breast cancer progression and metastasis. It is clear that our understanding of miRNA regulation of targets in metastasis is incomplete.

Interplay between p53 and non-coding RNAs in the regulation of EMT in breast cancer

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in the differentiation of vertebrates and is critically important in tumorigenesis. Using this evolutionarily conserved mechanism, cancer cells become drug-resistant and acquire the ability to escape the cytotoxic effect of anti-cancer drugs. In addition, these cells gain invasive features and increased mobility thereby promoting metastases. In this respect, the process of EMT is critical for dissemination of solid tumors including breast cancer. It has been shown that miRNAs are instrumental for the regulation of EMT, where they play both positive and negative roles often as a part of a feed-back loop. Recent studies have highlighted a novel association of p53 and EMT where the mutation status of p53 is critically important for the outcome of this process. Interestingly, p53 has been shown to mediate its effects via the miRNA-dependent mechanism that targets master-regulators of EMT, such as Zeb1/2, Snail, Slug, and Twist1. This regulation often involves interactions of miRNAs with lncRNAs. In this review, we present a detailed overview of miRNA/lncRNA-dependent mechanisms that control interplay between p53 and master-regulators of EMT and their importance for breast cancer.

Systems biology approach suggests new miRNAs as phenotypic stability factors in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular programme on which epithelial cells undergo a phenotypic transition to mesenchymal ones acquiring metastatic properties such as mobility and invasion. TGF-β signalling can promote the EMT process. However, the dynamics of the concentration response of TGF-β-induced EMT is not well explained. In this work, we propose a logical model of TGF-β dose dependence of EMT in MCF10A breast cells. The model outcomes agree with experimentally observed phenotypes for the wild-type and perturbed/mutated cases. As important findings of the model, it predicts the coexistence of more than one hybrid state and that the circuit between TWIST1 and miR-129 is involved in their stabilization. Thus, miR-129 should be considered as a phenotypic stability factor. The circuit TWIST1/miR-129 associates with ZEB1-mediated circuits involving miRNAs 200, 1199, 340, and the protein GRHL2 to stabilize the hybrid state. Additionally, we found a possible new autocrine mechanism composed of the circuit involving TGF-β, miR-200, and SNAIL1 that contributes to the stabilization of the mesenchymal state. Therefore, our work can extend our comprehension of TGF-β-induced EMT in MCF10A cells to potentially improve the strategies for breast cancer treatment.

The ERα-miR-575-p27 feedback loop regulates tamoxifen sensitivity in ER-positive Breast Cancer

Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy, and approximately 70% of breast cancers are estrogen receptor-α (ERα) positive. The anti-estrogen tamoxifen is a highly effective and commonly used treatment for patients with ER+ breast cancer. However, 30% of breast cancer patients fail adjuvant tamoxifen therapy and most of metastatic breast cancer patients develop tamoxifen resistance. Although increasing evidence suggests that microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation influences tamoxifen sensitivity, the mechanism of the cross-talk between miRNA and ERα signaling remains unclear. miR-575 has been reported to be involved in carcinogenesis and progression, however, the role of miR-575 in breast cancer remains limited. The aim of this study was to understand the mechanism of miR-575 in breast cancer tamoxifen resistance.

Method: RT-qPCR was employed to assess miR-575 expression in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. The association of miR-575 expression with overall survival in patients with breast cancer was evaluated with KM plotter. Additionally, the effects of miR-575 on breast cancer proliferation and tamoxifen sensitivity were investigated both in vitro and in vivo. Bioinformatic analyses and luciferase reporter assays were performed to validate CDKN1B and BRCA1 as direct targets of miR-31-5p. The ERα binding sites in the miR-575 promoter region was validated with ChIP and luciferase assays. ERα interactions with CDKN1B, cyclin D1 or BRCA1 were determined by IP analysis, and protein expression levels and localization were analyzed by western blotting and immunofluorescence, respectively.

Results: miR-575 levels were higher in ER+ breast cancer than in ER- breast cancer and patients with high miR-575 expression had a significantly poorer outcome than those with low miR-575 expression. ERα bound the miR-575 promoter to activate its transcription, and tamoxifen treatment downregulated miR-575 expression in ER+ breast cancer. Overexpression of miR-575 decreased tamoxifen sensitivity by targeting CDKN1B and BRCA1. CDKN1B and BRCA1 were both able to antagonize ERα activity by inhibiting ERα nuclear translocation and interaction with cyclin D1. Furthermore, miR-575 expression was found to be upregulated in ER+ breast cancer cell with acquired tamoxifen resistance, whereas depletion of miR-575 partially re-sensitized these cells to tamoxifen by regulation of CDKN1B.

Conclusions: Our data reveal the ERα-miR-575-CDKN1B feedback loop in ER+ breast cancer, suggesting that miR-575 can be used as a prognostic biomarker in patients with ER+ breast cancer, as well as a predictor or a promising target for tamoxifen sensitivity.

Potential miRNAs for miRNA-Based Therapeutics in Breast Cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that can post-transcriptionally regulate the genes involved in critical cellular processes. The aberrant expressions of oncogenic or tumor suppressor miRNAs have been associated with cancer progression and malignancies. This resulted in the dysregulation of signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis and survival, metastasis, cancer recurrence and chemoresistance. In this review, we will first (i) provide an overview of the miRNA biogenesis pathways, and in vitro and in vivo models for research, (ii) summarize the most recent findings on the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) that could potentially be used for miRNA-based therapy in the treatment of breast cancer and (iii) discuss the various therapeutic applications.

Niao Du Kang Mixture Increases the Expression of mir-129-5p to Relieve Renal Fibrosis

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of Niao Du Kang (NDK) mixture in renal fibrosis of rats and to explore the mechanism underlying the effect of NDK on renal fibrosis.

Methods

Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was used to replicate a rat renal interstitial fibrosis model. The drug-administered groups were given 20 ml/kg (NDK-H), 10 ml/kg (NDK-M), and 5 ml/kg (NDK-L) NDK mixture once a day for 21 days beginning 48 hours after surgery. The 24-hour urine protein and serum creatinine (CR) levels in the sham group rats, UUO rats, and NDK mixture-treated rats were measured after the last administration. The pathological changes of rat kidney tissue were observed by HE staining. The degree of fibrosis was observed by Masson's staining and scored. The expression levels of TGF-β, α-SMA mRNA, and mir-129-5p in kidney were detected by qRT-PCR. HK-2 cells were treated with 5 ng/ml TGF-β to induce HK-2 cell fibrosis. The expression levels of TGF-β, α-SMA mRNA, and mir-129-5p in HK-2 cells were detected by qRT-PCR. TargetScan predicted the target gene of mir-129-5p, HK-2 cells were transfected with mir-129-5p mimic, and an overexpressed mir-129-5p HK-2 cell model was constructed. qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of PDPK1 mRNA. Western blot was used to detect the expression of PDPK1, AKT, and p-AKT in HK-2 cells induced by TGF-β and in UUO rats.

Results

NDK mixture significantly reduced the 24-hour urine protein and CR levels of UUO rats. HE staining showed that the NDK mixture group exhibited a significantly reduced degree of renal interstitial fibrosis. NDK mixture also reduced the expression of TGF-β and α-SMA, and the middle-dose group showed a better therapeutic effect. In vitro studies showed that NDK mixture-containing serum increased the expression of mir-129-5p to reduce renal fibrosis. In addition, NDK mixture increased the expression of mir-129-5p in vivo. Further studies indicated that mir-129-5p could target PDPKl to reduce its expression. The NDK-containing serum group also exhibited reduced expression of PDPK1.

Conclusion

NDK mixture can significantly improve renal function and improve renal fibrosis in UUO model rats. Furthermore, NDK mixture can inhibit the expression of PDPK1 by upregulating the expression of mir-129-5p and then inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway to improve renal fibrosis.

Inhibition of ZEB1-AS1 confers cisplatin sensitivity in breast cancer by promoting microRNA-129-5p-dependent ZEB1 downregulation

Background

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are of critical importance in tumor drug resistance. Herein, this study aims to determine the roles of lncRNA ZEB1-AS1 in drug resistance of breast cancer involving microRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p) and ZEB1.

Methods

Microarray-based gene expression profiling of breast cancer was conducted to identify the differentially expressed lncRNAs. ZEB1 expression was measured in adjacent and cancerous tissues. Next, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with a series of inhibitor, mimic or siRNA to clarify the roles of lncRNA ZEB1-AS1 and miR-129-5p in drug resistance of breast cancer. Then the target relationship of miR-129-5p with lncRNA ZEB1-AS1 and ZEB1 was verified. The expression patterns of miR-129-5p, lncRNA ZEB1-AS1, Bcl-2, MDR-1, ZEB1 and corresponding proteins were evaluated. Moreover, the apoptosis and drug resistance of MCF-7 cell were detected by CCK-8 and flow cytometry respectively.

Results

LncRNA ZEB1-AS1 was observed to be an upregulated lncRNA in breast cancer, and ZEB1 overexpression was noted in breast cancerous tissues. MiR-129-5p was revealed to specifically bind to both ZEB1 and lncRNA ZEB1-AS1. Moreover, the expression levels of ZEB1-AS1, ZEB1, Bcl-2, MDR-1, and corresponding proteins were decreased, but the expression of miR-129-5p was increased with transfection of miR-129-5p mimic and lncRNA ZEB1-AS1 siRNA. Besides, drug resistance to cisplatin was inhibited, and cell apoptosis was promoted in breast cancer after transfection of miR-129-5p mimic, lncRNA ZEB1-AS1 siRNA, and ZEB1 siRNA.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study provides evidence that lncRNA ZEB1-AS1 silencing protects against drug resistance in breast cancer by promoting miR-129-5p-dependent ZEB1 downregulation. It may serve as a novel therapeutic target in breast cancer treatment.

MiR-129-5p sensitization of lung cancer cells to etoposide-induced apoptosis by reducing YWHAB

Background: Lung cancer is the most common cause of death from cancer worldwide and recent studies have revealed that microRNAs play critical roles to regulate lung carcinogenesis. microRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p) has been reported to regulate cell proliferation and invasion in lung cancer, but its role in lung cancer apoptosis remains unknown.

Methods: The expression of miR-129-5p and YWHAB in lung cancer tissues were analyzed from data downloaded from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Luciferase reporter assay, Western blot and qRT-PCR were used to determine the regulatory effect of miR-129-5p on YWHAB. Cell apoptosis was detected by using the PI/Annexin V Cell Apoptosis Kit. The effect of miR-129-5p and YWHAB on the survival of lung cancer patients was also explored.

Results: In this study, by combining the data derived from six GEO database, our results showed that miR-129-5p was downregulated in lung cancer tissues and YWHAB was upregulated in lung cancer patient' serum. A significant negative correlation between miR-129-5p and YWHAB was found in lung cancer tissues. Both the expression of YWHAB and miR-129-5p were associated significantly with prognosis (overall survival) in patients with lung cancer. Overexpression of miR-129-5p promotes VP16-induced lung cancer cell apoptosis and YWHAB was shown to be a direct downstream target of miR-129-5p.

Conclusion: Overexpression of expression miR-129-5p contributes to etoposide-induced lung cancer apoptosis by modulating YWHAB.

MicroRNA-129-5p suppresses nasopharyngeal carcinoma lymphangiogenesis and lymph node metastasis by targeting ZIC2

PURPOSE

The etiology of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is multifactorial, complex and not fully characterized yet. MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) have been found to contribute to the development and progression of NPC. Here, we aimed to investigate the putative role of miR-129-5p in NPC lymphangiogenesis and lymph node metastasis (LNM), including the involvement of its target gene ZIC2 and the Hedgehog signaling pathway.

METHODS

The expression of miR-129-5p and ZIC2 in primary NPC tissues was assessed using RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses, followed by LNM and lymph vessel density (LVD) correlation analyses. A direct interaction between miR-129-5p and ZIC2 was verified using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of miR-129-5p and ZIC2 expression on NPC cell invasion, migration and proliferation in vitro, as well as on LDV and LNM in nude mice in vivo. Additionally, RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression levels of Hedgehog signaling pathway-related factors.

RESULTS

We found that ZIC2 was highly expressed, and miR-129-5p was lowly expressed, in primary NPC tissues. In addition, we found that miR-129-5p can directly bind to and reduce ZIC2 expression. LVD was found to be negatively correlated with miR-129-5p and to be positively correlated with ZIC2 expression. Concomitantly, we found that miR-129-5p abrogated activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway via ZIC2 targeting, leading to suppression of NPC cell invasion, migration and proliferation in vitro as well as suppression of LNM and LVD in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

From our data we conclude that miR-129-5p, by decreasing ZIC2 expression, may inhibit NPC lymphangiogenesis and LNM through suppression of the Hedgehog signaling pathway.

Prognostic role of microRNAs in breast cancer: A systematic review

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been found to play an important role in breast cancer, functioning either as potential oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, but their role in the prognosis of patients remains unclear. The aim of the present review study is to highlight recent preclinical and clinical studies performed on both circulating and tissue-specific miRNAs and their potential role as prognostic markers in breast cancer. We systematically searched the PubMed database to explore the prognostic value of miRNAs in breast cancer. After performing the literature search and review, 117 eligible studies were identified. We found that 110 aberrantly expressed miRNAs have been associated with prognosis in breast cancer. In conclusion, the collective data presented in this review indicate that miRNAs could serve as novel prognostic tools in breast cancer, while the clinical application of these findings has yet to be verified.

MicroRNA-129-5p suppresses proliferation, migration and invasion of retinoblastoma cells through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by targeting PAX6

BACKGROUND

Retinoblastoma (RB) is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in children. Accumulating evidences have clarified that microRNAs (miRNAs) modulated signaling molecules by acting as oncogenes or tumor-suppressor genes in RB. Thus, in our study, we aimed to investigate the function of miR-129-5p in RB cells through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by targeting PAX6. Two RB cell lines, Y79 and WERI-Rb-1, were selected in our study, followed by transfection of miR-129-5p inhibitor or si-PAX6 to explore the regulatory role of miR-129-5p in RB cell proliferation, invasion and migration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Dual-luciferase assay was used for the detection of targeting relationship between miR-129-5p and PAX6. Besides, western blot analysis was applied to detect expression of cell cycle-related factors (CDK2 and Cyclin E) and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway-related factors (p-AKT and AKT). Nude mice tumorigenesis experiment was used to evaluate the effect of miR-129a-5p on RB growth in vivo.

RESULTS

miR-129-5p was down-regulated in RB cell lines. miR-129-5p directly targeted the 3'-untranslated region of PAX6. Artificial down-regulation of miR-129-5p promoted cell proliferation, migration and invasion in RB cell lines Y79 and WERI-Rb-1, and promoted RB growth in vivo via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which could be reversed by transfection with silencing PAX6.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidences that RB progression was suppressed by overexpressed miR-129-5p via direct targeting of PAX6 through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which may provide a molecular basis for better treatment for RB.

MicroRNA-101 Protects Against Cardiac Remodeling Following Myocardial Infarction via Downregulation of Runt-Related Transcription Factor 1

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI) generally leads to heart failure and sudden death. The hearts of people with MI undergo remodeling with the features of expanded myocardial infarct size and dilated left ventricle. Many microRNAs (miRs) have been revealed to be involved in the remodeling process; however, the participation of miR‐101 remains unknown. Therefore, this study aims to find out the regulatory mechanism of miR‐101 in MI‐induced cardiac remodeling.

Methods and Results

Microarray data analysis was conducted to screen differentially expressed genes in MI. The rat model of MI was established by left coronary artery ligation. In addition, the relationship between miR‐101 and runt‐related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) was identified using dual luciferase reporter assay. After that, the rats injected with lentiviral vector expressing miR‐101 mimic, inhibitor, or small interfering RNA against RUNX1 were used to examine the effects of miR‐101 and RUNX1 on transforming growth factor β signaling pathway, cardiac function, infarct size, myocardial fibrosis, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. RUNX1 was highly expressed, while miR‐101 was poorly expressed in MI. miR‐101 was identified to target RUNX1. Following that, it was found that overexpression of miR‐101 or silencing of RUNX1 improved the cardiac function and elevated left ventricular end‐diastolic and end‐systolic diameters. Also, miR‐101 elevation or RUNX1 depletion decreased infarct size, myocardial fibrosis, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Moreover, miR‐101 could negatively regulate RUNX1 to inactivate the transforming growth factor β1/Smad family member 2 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Taken together, miR‐101 plays a protective role against cardiac remodeling following MI via inactivation of the RUNX1‐dependent transforming growth factor β1/Smad family member 2 signaling pathway, proposing miR‐101 and RUNX1 as potential therapeutic targets for MI.

Long non-coding RNA NONHSAT101069 promotes epirubicin resistance, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells through NONHSAT101069/miR-129-5p/Twist1 axis

Drug resistance, including epirubicin-based therapeutic resistance, is one of the major reasons responsible for the unfavorable prognosis of patients diagnosed with breast cancer (BC). Acquired chemoresistance and metastatic properties have been identified to be closely associated with the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Recently, dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been increasingly reported to perform promotive or suppressive functions in chemoresistance and EMT process in multiple cancers. However, relevant novel lncRNA participating in epirubicin resistance and EMT and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown in BC. Herein, we established the epirubicin-resistant breast cancer cell subline (MCF-7/ADR), which presented mesenchymal phenotype and increased metastatic potential. A panel of differentially expressed lncRNAs, including 268 upregulated and 49 downregulated lncRNAs, were identified by high-flux microarray investigation in MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR cells. The novel lncRNA NONHSAT101069 was significantly overexpressed in BC specimens, BC cell lines, and epirubicin-resistant cell sublines. The knockdown of NONHSAT101069 significantly repressed, whereas overexpression of NONHSAT101069 promoted the epirubicin resistance, migration, invasion and EMT process of BC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Further mechanism-related researches uncovered that NONHSAT101069 functioned as a ceRNA (competing endogenous RNA) via sponging miR-129-5p. Twist1 was a direct downstream protein of NONHSAT101069/miR-129-5p axis in BC cells. To conclude, NONHSAT101069 was upregulated in BC tissues and promoted epirubicin resistance, migration and invasion of BC cells via regulation of NONHSAT101069/miR-129-5p/Twist1 axis, highlighting its potential as an oncogene and a therapeutic biomarker for BC.

Upregulation of miR-129-5p increases the sensitivity to Taxol through inhibiting HMGB1-mediated cell autophagy in breast cancer MCF-7 cells

Although Taxol has improved the survival of cancer patients as a first-line chemotherapeutic agent, an increasing number of patients develop resistance to Taxol after prolonged treatment. The potential mechanisms of cancer cell resistance to Taxol are not completely clear. It has been reported that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in regulating the sensitivity of cancer cells to various chemotherapeutic agents. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of miR-129-5p in regulating the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to Taxol. Cell apoptosis and autophagy, and the sensitivity of MCF-7 cells to Taxol were assessed with a series of in vitro assays. Our results showed that the inhibition of autophagy increased the Taxol-induced apoptosis and the sensitivity of MCF-7 cells to Taxol. Up-regulation of miR-129-5p also inhibited autophagy and induced apoptosis. Furthermore, miR-129-5p overexpression increased the sensitivity of MCF-7 cells to Taxol. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a target gene of miR-129-5p and a regulator of autophagy, was negatively regulated by miR-129-5p. We found that interference of HMGB1 enhanced the chemosensitivity of Taxol by inhibiting autophagy and inducing apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. Taken together, our findings suggested that miR-129-5p increased the chemosensitivity of MCF-7 cells to Taxol through suppressing autophagy and enhancing apoptosis by inhibiting HMGB1. Using miR-129-5p/HMGB1/autophagy-based therapeutic strategies may be a potential treatment for overcoming Taxol resistance in breast cancer.

Inactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway underlies inhibitory role of microRNA-129-5p in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis of prostate cancer by targeting ZIC2

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common disease that often occurs among older men and a frequent cause of malignancy associated death in this group. microRNA (miR)-129-5p has been identified as an essential regulator with a significant role in the prognosis of PC. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate roles of miR-129-5p in PCa.

Methods

Microarray analysis was conducted to identify PCa-related genes. The expression of miR-129-5p and ZIC2 in PCa tissues was investigated. To understand the role of miR-129-5p and ZIC2 in PCa, DU145 cells were transfected with mimic or inhibitor of miR-129-5p, or si-ZIC2 and the expression of Wnt, β-catenin, E-cadherin, vimentin, N-cadherin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and CD31, as well as the extent of β-catenin phosphorylation was determined. In addition, cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, apoptosis and tumorigenesis were detected.

Results

miR-129-5p was poorly expressed and ZIC2 was highly expressed in PCa tissues. Down-regulation of ZIC2 or overexpression of miR-129-5p reduced the expression of ZIC2, Wnt, β-catenin, N-cadherin, vimentin, and β-catenin phosphorylation but increased the expression of E-cadherin. Importantly, miR-129-5p overexpression significantly reduced cell migration, invasion, angiogenesis and tumorigenesis while increasing cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study indicated that overexpression of miR-129-5p or silencing of ZIC2 could inhibit epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis in PCa through blockage of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

miR-129-5p suppresses proliferation, migration, and induces apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells by targeting PBX3

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is the seventh most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide with a high mortality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as important regulators for the development of PC and participate in the progression of PC. miR-129-5p was reported to regulate the progression of tumors, such as thyroid cancer and gastric cancer. However, the function of miR-129-5p in PC is still unclear. In this study, the down-regulation of miR-129-5p was detected in PC tissues and PC cells. miR-129-5p was overexpressed or knocked down in AsPC-1 and BxPC-3 cells. The results showed that miR-129-5p overexpression suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis of PC cells, whereas miR-129-5p knockdown showed opposite effects. In addition, we found that pre-B-cell leukemia homeobox 3 (PBX3) overexpression promoted proliferation, migration and invasion, but reduced apoptosis of PC cells. PBX3 was identified as a target of miR-129-5p by informatics analysis and dual luciferase reporter assay. Finally, our results indicated that miR-129-5p suppressed cell proliferation and migration by targeting PBX3. This study demonstrated that miR-129-5p could function as a tumor suppressor in the progression and development of PC by targeting PBX3, providing a reliable prognostic factor and a new therapeutic strategy for PC.

Relation of AURKB over-expression to low survival rate in BCRA and reversine-modulated aurora B kinase in breast cancer cell lines

Background

New therapeutic drug for breast cancer (BRCA), especially triple negative BRCA (TNBC), is urgently needed. Even though 2-(4-morpholinoanilino)-6-cyclohexylaminopurine (reversine) is an aurora kinase inhibitor, it also inhibits some cancer cells and human BRCA cells. However, the potential roles of reversine as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of BRCA remains unknown and must be further investigation. Thus, the relationship of reversine to aurora kinase in BCRA has not been reported. The relationship between AURKB and survival rate in BRCA has never been reported. Herein, we tested the roles of reversine on different BRCA cell line subtypes. We also investigated the relationship between AURKB and survival rate in BRCA as well as reversine to Aurora kinase expression in BCRA cell lines, including TNBC subtype, 4T1, MDA-MB-231, and luminal subtype MCF-7.

Methods

Cell viability and apoptosis were detected using Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. Apoptotic and tumor-related proteins were tested using Western blot analysis. Important microRNAs that regulate BRCA were analyzed using RT-PCR. UALCAN public databases were used to analyze the targeted gene profiles, and the PROGgeneV2 database was used to study the prognostic implications of genes.

Results

Reversine inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell apoptosis by modulating caspase-3 and bax/bcl-2 among the three cell lines. Data from the UALCAN public database show that BRCA tissues expressed high gene levels of AURKB, TIMP1, MMP9, and TGFB1 compared with the normal tissue. Among the over-expressed genes in BRCA, AURKB ranks 9th in TNBC, 49th in luminal subtype, and 48th in HER2 subtype. High AURKB level in BRCA is highly related to the low survival rate in patients displayed in 18 databases searched via PROGgeneV2. The protein levels of aurora B kinase (Aurora B), which is encoded by AURKB gene, are highly suppressed by reversine in the three cell lines. The tumor-related proteins TGF-β1, TIMP1, and MMP9 are partially suppressed by reversine but with different sensitivity in the three cell lines. The reversine-affected microRNAs, such as miR129-5p, miR-199a-3p, and miR-3960, in MDA-MB-231 cell line might be the research targets in TNBC regulation.

Conclusions

In BRCA, the level of AURKB are over-expressed and is related to low survival rate. Reversine contributes to anti-growth effect in BRCA cell lines, especially for TNBC, by modulating the aurora B. However, the invasiveness, metastasis, and anti-tumor effects of reversine in vivo and in vitro must be further investigated.

MicroRNA-129 modulates neuronal migration by targeting Fmr1 in the developing mouse cortex

During cortical development, neuronal migration is one of the most important steps for normal cortical formation and function, and defects in this process cause many brain diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process remain largely unknown. In this study, we found that miR-129-5p and miR-129-3p were expressed in both neural progenitor cells and cortical neurons in the developing murine cortex. Moreover, abnormal miR-129 expression could block radial migration of both the deeper layer and upper layer neurons, and impair the multipolar to bipolar transition. However, antagomir-mediated inhibition resulted in overmigration of neurons. In addition, we showed that Fragile X Mental Retardation gene 1 (Fmr1), which is mutated in the autism spectrum disorder fragile X syndrome, is an important regulatory target for miR-129-5p. Furthermore, Fmr1 loss-of-function and gain-of-function experiments showed opposite effects on miR-129 regulation of neuronal migration, and restoring Fmr1 expression could counteract the deleterious effect of miR-129 on neuronal migration. Taken together, our results suggest that miR-129-5p could modulate the expression of fragile X mental retardation 1 protein (FMRP) to ensure normal neuron positioning in the developing cerebral cortex.

Estrogen receptor-α-miR-1271-SNAI2 feedback loop regulates transforming growth factor-β-induced breast cancer progression

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and approximately 70% of breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive and express estrogen receptor-α (ERα) or/and progesterone receptor. ERα has been identified to promote the growth of primary breast cancer, however, it can also antagonize signaling pathways that lead to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling. miRNA alteration or dysfunction is involved in cancer development and progression. Although miR-1271 has identified as a tumor suppressor in various cancers, the role of miR-1271 in breast cancer is still limited.

METHODS

The effect of miR-1271 on breast cancer progression was investigated both in vitro and in vivo. The EMT-related protein expression levels and localization were analyzed by western blotting and immunofluorescence, respectively. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to validate the regulation of ERα-miR-1271-SNAI2 feedback loop.

RESULTS

miR-1271 suppresses breast cancer progression and EMT phenotype both in vitro and in vivo by targeting SNAI2. Estrogen reverses TGF-β-induced EMT in a miR-1271 dependent manner. Furthermore, ERα transactivates the miR-1271 expression and is also transcriptionally repressed by SNAI2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data uncover the ERα-miR-1271-SNAI2 feedback loop and provide a mechanism to explain the TGF-β network in breast cancer progression.

miR-190 enhances endocrine therapy sensitivity by regulating SOX9 expression in breast cancer

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and approximately 70% of breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive and express estrogen receptor-α (ERα) or/and progesterone receptor. Therapies targeting ERα have been successfully used in patients with ERα⁺ breast cancer. However, intrinsic or acquired resistance to anti-estrogen therapy presents a major challenge. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway regulates various processes that are important for cancer progression, and emerging evidences have shown a close interaction between Wnt/β-catenin and ERα signaling. miR-190 is also involved in ER signaling and our previous study indicated that miR-190 suppresses breast cancer metastasis.

Methods

The effect of miR-190 on breast cancer anti-estrogen sensitivity was investigated both in vitro and in vivo. The protein expression levels and localization were analyzed by western blotting and immunofluorescence, respectively. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were used to validate the regulation of the zinc-finger E-box binding homeobox 1/ ERα-miR-190-SRY-related high mobility group box 9 (ZEB1/ERα-miR-190-SOX9) axis.

Results

miR-190 increased the anti-estrogen sensitivity of breast cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. miR-190 inhibited Wnt/β-catenin signaling by targeting SOX9, and its expression inversely correlated with that of SOX9 in breast cancer samples. Furthermore, ERα and ZEB1 competitively regulated miR-190 expression.

Conclusions

Our data uncover the ZEB1/ERα-miR-190-SOX9 axis and suggest a mechanism by which the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is involved in breast cancer anti-estrogen therapy.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13046-019-1039-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Downregulation of long non-coding RNA Opa interacting protein 5-antisense RNA 1 inhibits breast cancer progression by targeting sex-determining region Y-box 2 by microRNA-129-5p upregulation

Several studies have shown an important role for long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) in breast cancer progression. The present study investigated the role of lncRNA Opa interacting protein 5‐antisense RNA 1 (OIP5‐AS1) in the progression of breast cancer. OIP5‐AS1 was significantly upregulated in breast cancer tissues and in breast cancer cell lines, and OIP5‐AS1 downregulation inhibited the malignant behavior of breast cancer in vitro and in vivo. For in‐depth exploration of the mechanism of OIP5‐AS1 in breast cancer, we found that expression of microRNA‐129‐5p(miR‐129‐5p), which was found to bind sites in the sequence of OIP5‐AS1, in breast cancer tissues was negatively correlated with OIP5‐AS1. Also, luciferase assays indicated that OIP5‐AS1 acted as a miR‐129‐5p sponge, resulting in upregulated expression of the sex‐determining region Y‐box 2 (SOX2) transcription factor. Our study showed that OIP5‐AS1 plays a critical role in promoting breast cancer progression and that OIP5‐AS1 downregulation targets SOX2 by miR‐129‐5p upregulation.

Upregulation of microRNA-129-5p inhibits cell invasion, migration and tumor angiogenesis by inhibiting ZIC2 via downregulation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway in cervical cancer

Recently, some studies have placed additional research focus on microRNAs (miRNAs) in a bid to discover novel therapeutic approaches for cervical cancer (CC), which is one of the most common female reproductive tract malignancies with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Hence, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the ability of miR-129-5p to influence cell angiogenesis, invasion and migration by targeting ZIC2 through the Hedgehog signaling pathway in CC. Both CC and adjacent normal tissues were extracted from 87 eligible participating patients with CC. Measurements of the levels of miR-129-5p, mRNA and protein levels of ZIC2, sonic Hedgehog (Shh), Gli1, and Gli2 and levels of CXCL1, VEGF and Ang2 were determined accordingly. An angiogenesis assay was performed to evaluate cell angiogenesis in vitro, while a scratch test and transwell assay were adopted for cell invasion and migration determination. Lastly, tumor formation within nude mice was performed in order to analyze angiogenesis and tumor growth among the nude mice in vivo. The findings revealed that upregulation of miR-129-5p resulted in the decrease in the mRNA and protein levels of ZIC2, Shh, Gli1, Gli2, as well as reduced levels of CXCL1, VEGF and Ang2. Moreover, up-regulation of miR-129-5p was determined to inhibit CC cell angiogenesis ability in vitro, in addition to the processes of cell migration, and invasion. Finally, up-regulation of miR-129-5p was observed to inhibit the tumor growth and angiogenesis ability of nude mice in vivo. The results of the present study provided evidence suggesting that overexpressed miR-129-5p prevents angiogenesis and inhibits cell migration and invasion by means of negatively targeting ZIC2 through suppression of the Hedgehog signaling pathway in CC. Thus, highlighting the promise of miR-129-5p as a novel target for treating CC is promising.

MiR-129 regulates growth and invasion by targeting MAL2 in papillary thyroid carcinoma

MAL2, a member of the MAL proteolipid family, is essential for raft-mediated transport. In this study, we investigated the roles and underlying mechanism of MAL2 in the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Up-regulation of MAL2 was found in human PTC tissues and significantly correlated with poor overall survival (OS). Knockdown of MAL2 dramatically suppressed PTC cell proliferation and invasion in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. We further found that miR-129 suppressed the expression of MLA through directly binding to the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR). While forced miR-129 expression suppressed growth and invasion of PTC cells, re-expression of MAL2 rescued these effects. Taken together, our data indicated that MAL2 acted as an oncogene and was negatively regulated by miR-129, supporting the potential therapeutic strategy against PTC by targeting miR-129-MAL2 axis.

Functional Role of Non-Coding RNAs during Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key biological process involved in a multitude of developmental and pathological events. It is characterized by the progressive loss of cell-to-cell contacts and actin cytoskeletal rearrangements, leading to filopodia formation and the progressive up-regulation of a mesenchymal gene expression pattern enabling cell migration. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition is already observed in early embryonic stages such as gastrulation, when the epiblast undergoes an EMT process and therefore leads to the formation of the third embryonic layer, the mesoderm. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition is pivotal in multiple embryonic processes, such as for example during cardiovascular system development, as valve primordia are formed and the cardiac jelly is progressively invaded by endocardium-derived mesenchyme or as the external cardiac cell layer is established, i.e., the epicardium and cells detached migrate into the embryonic myocardial to form the cardiac fibrous skeleton and the coronary vasculature. Strikingly, the most important biological event in which EMT is pivotal is cancer development and metastasis. Over the last years, understanding of the transcriptional regulatory networks involved in EMT has greatly advanced. Several transcriptional factors such as Snail, Slug, Twist, Zeb1 and Zeb2 have been reported to play fundamental roles in EMT, leading in most cases to transcriptional repression of cell⁻cell interacting proteins such as ZO-1 and cadherins and activation of cytoskeletal markers such as vimentin. In recent years, a fundamental role for non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs and more recently long non-coding RNAs, has been identified in normal tissue development and homeostasis as well as in several oncogenic processes. In this study, we will provide a state-of-the-art review of the functional roles of non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs, in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in both developmental and pathological EMT.

microRNA-129-5p suppresses Adriamycin resistance in breast cancer by targeting SOX2

Adriamycin resistance is closely related to therapeutic efficacy in breast cancer patients and their prognosis. Increasing evidence has suggested that miRNA functions in Adriamycin resistance in various types of cancer. microRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p) has been considered a tumor-suppressive miRNA in several cancers, but its potential role in Adriamycin resistance in breast cancer has not been fully elucidate. By qRT-PCR assay, we revealed that the expression of miR-129-5p was significantly decreased in breast cancer tissues and Adriamycin-resistant breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231/ADR, MCF-7/ADR). CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing, Transwell invasion, and flow cytometric profiles were examined to determine the influence of miR-129-5p on Adriamycin-resistant breast cancer in vitro. The upregulation of miR-129-5p decreased the IC50 concentration of Adriamycin and invasion and promoted the apoptosis of MDA-MB-231/ADR cells in the presence of Adriamycin, whereas the upregulation of Sex-Determining Region Y-Box 2 (SOX2) reversed these effects. A luciferase reporter assay confirmed the binding of miR-129-5p to the 3'UTR of SOX2. Collectively, it was suggested that miR-129-5p suppresses Adriamycin resistance in breast cancer by directly targeting SOX2.

miR-129-5p targets Wnt5a to block PKC/ERK/NF-κB and JNK pathways in glioblastoma

Therapeutic application of microRNAs (miRNAs) in Wnt-driven glioma has been valuable; however, their specific roles and mechanisms have not been completely investigated. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to analyse the expression of microRNA-129-5p (miR-129-5p) in human glioma samples. Cell-Counting Kit 8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry, EdU, angiogenesis, Transwell invasion, wound healing, in vitro 3D migration and neurosphere formation assays were employed to assess the role of miR-129-5p in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. Moreover, we performed the luciferase reporter assay and the RNA-ChIP (chromatin immunoprecipitation) assay to confirm whether Wnt5a was a direct target of miR-129-5p. We also confirmed the correlation between the expression profile of miR-129-5p and Wnt5a in glioma patients from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) and investigated the overall survival of GBM patients using two data sets, namely, TCGA and GSE16011, according to their Wnt5a expression status. MiR-129-5p expression levels were downregulated and inversely correlated with Wnt5a expression levels in CGGA glioma patients. Restored expression of miR-129-5p blocked GBM cell proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, neurosphere formation and resistance to temozolomide. We reported that miR-129-5p directly targeted Wnt5a in glioma. Furthermore, we observed that overexpression of miR-129-5p inhibited the expression of Wnt5a, thus blocking the protein kinase C(PKC)/ERK/NF-κB and JNK pathways. Inhibiting Wnt5a rescued the effects of miR-129-5p loss and increased Wnt5a expression was associated with reduced overall survival of GBM patients. We also demonstrated the inhibitory effect of miR-129-5p on tumour growth in GBM using an in vivo model. The miR-129-5p/Wnt5a-axis-mediated PKC/ERK/NF-κB and JNK pathways have therapeutic potential in GBM treatment.

miR-190 suppresses breast cancer metastasis by regulation of TGF-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and metastasis is the leading cause of death among patients with breast cancer. The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway plays critical roles during breast cancer epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. SMAD2, a positive regulator of TGF-β signaling, promotes breast cancer metastasis through induction of EMT.

Methods

The expression of miR-190 and SMAD2 in breast cancer tissues, adjacent normal breast tissues and cell lines were determined by RT-qPCR. The protein expression levels and localization were analyzed by western blotting and immunofluorescence. ChIP and dual-luciferase report assays were used to validate the regulation of ZEB1-miR-190-SMAD2 axis. The effect of miR-190 on breast cancer progression was investigated both in vitro and in vivo.

Results

miR-190 down-regulation is required for TGF-β-induced EMT. miR-190 suppresses breast cancer metastasis both in vitro and in vivo by targeting SMAD2. miR-190 expression is down-regulated and inversely correlates with SMAD2 in breast cancer samples, and its expression level was associated with outcome in patients with breast cancer. Furthermore, miR-190 is transcriptionally regulated by ZEB1.

Conclusions

Our data uncover the ZEB1-miR-190-SMAD2 axis and provide a mechanism to explain the TGF-β network in breast cancer metastasis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12943-018-0818-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

miR-340 and ZEB1 negative feedback loop regulates TGF-β- mediated breast cancer progression

MicroRNAs act as key regulators in carcinogenesis and progression in various cancers. In present study, we explored the role of miR-340 in the breast cancer progression. Our results showed that overexpression of miR-340 inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation and invasion, whereas depletion of miR-340 promotes breast cancer progression. Molecularly, ZEB1 was identified as a target gene of miR-340 and miR-340 suppressed the expression of ZEB1 by directly binding to the 3′-UTR of ZEB1. Furthermore, ZEB1 transcriptionally suppresses miR-340 expression. The negative feedback loop regulated TGF-β-mediated breast cancer progression. In conclusion, our data suggested that miR-340 acted as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer progression.

MicroRNA-129-5p suppresses cell proliferation, migration and invasion via targeting ROCK1 in osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignancy of the bone in teenagers and accounts for 20‑35% of all malignant primary bone tumors. Increasing evidence shows that microRNAs (miRNAs) are abnormally expressed in several types of human cancer. miRNAs are necessary to maintain the malignant phenotype of cancer cells and can function as either tumor suppressors or oncogenes. The present study aimed to measure the expression of miRNA‑129‑5p (miR‑129‑5p) in OS, determine the effects of miR‑129‑5p on the malignant behaviors of OS cells, and elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the oncogenesis and progression of OS. The expression levels of miR‑129‑5p in OS tissues and cell lines were measured using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) analysis. SAOS‑2 and U2OS cells were then transfected with miR‑129‑5p mimics or miR‑negative control. The effects of miR‑129‑5p on the proliferation, migration and invasion of SAOS‑2 and U2OS cells in vitro were then evaluated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, Transwell migration assay and invasion assays, respectively. In addition, bioinformatics analysis, a luciferase reporter assay, and RT‑qPCR and western blot analyses were used to examine whether Rho‑associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) was a direct target of miR‑129‑5p. The mRNA expression of ROCK1 in OS tissues was detected using RT‑qPCR analysis, and the biological roles of ROCK1 in OS cells were also evaluated. The results showed that miR‑129‑5p was significantly downregulated in the OS tissues and cell lines. The re‑expression of miR‑129‑5p suppressed the cell proliferation, migration and invasion of OS cells. In addition, ROCK1 was confirmed as a direct target of miR‑129‑5p. The mRNA expression of ROCK1 was high in OS tissues and inversely correlated with the expression of miR‑129‑5p. The downregulation of ROCK1 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of OS cells. These findings suggested that miR‑129‑5p inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion in the development of OS via the negative regulation of ROCK1. The miR‑129‑5p/ROCK1 axis may serve as an efficient target in cancer therapy.

Integrated Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNA and mRNA Expression Profile in Pancreatic Cancer Derived Exosomes Treated Dendritic Cells by Microarray Analysis

Background: Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease with a low five-year survival rate. Dendritic cells (DCs), which are the most potent antigen-presenting cells in the human body, play a pivotal role in the immune response. However, few studies have investigated the role of pancreatic cancer-derived exosomes (PEXs) in DC-meditated immune escape. The expression profiles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs of PEX-treated dendritic cells are unknown.

Methods: We used integrated lncRNA and mRNA microarrays to determine the expression profiles of PEX-treated DCs and normal DCs derived from five healthy donors. Gene Ontology (GO), KEGG, and cancer genomics analyses were performed to identify significant functions, pathways, and the associations of differentially expressed mRNAs. A coexpression network was constructed to identify the correlation between differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs and further validated using real-time quantitative PCR in twenty healthy donors. The AnnoLnc program was used to perform an annotation analysis of lncRNAs.

Results: We identified 3,227 and 924 differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs, respectively, in PEX-treated DCs. GO and pathway analysis revealed differentially expressed mRNAs involved in many critical biological processes and molecular functions. Cancer genomics analysis revealed that 36 of the most differentially expressed mRNAs were involved in a pancreatic cancer network and were associated with many critical mutated genes such as TP53, KRAS, SMAD4, and CDKN2A. LncRNAs such as ENST00000560647 and mRNAs such as legumain (lgmn) were differentially expressed in PEX-treated DCs, and the data were validated using RT-qPCR.

Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to detect the differential expression of lncRNAs and mRNAs associated with PEX-treated DCs. LncRNAs such as ENST00000560647 and mRNAs such as lgmn might play a critical role in immune escape of DCs treated with PEX. Further investigation is required to validate the functions and associations of these RNAs.

MicroRNA-320 inhibits cell proliferation and invasion in breast cancer cells by targeting SOX4

Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRs) can contribute to cancer development and progression. In the present study, the function and underlying molecular mechanisms of miR-320 in breast cancer tumorigenesis and progression were investigated. The results of a reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that miR-320 was frequently downregulated in breast cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. In addition, knockdown of miR-320 in breast cancer cell lines promoted cell proliferation and invasion in vitro, whereas miR-320 overexpression had the opposite effect. Furthermore, a Dual-Luciferase reporter assay indicated that SRY-box 4 (SOX4) is a direct target of miR-320, and the restoration of SOX4 in miR-320-overexpressing cells attenuated the tumor-suppressive effects of miR-320. Collectively, these results indicated that miR-320 acts as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer tumorigenesis and progression.

Roles of GSK-3 and microRNAs on epithelial mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cells

Various signaling pathways exert critical roles in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSCs). The Wnt/beta-catenin, PI3K/PTEN/Akt/mTORC, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, hedgehog (Hh), Notch and TP53 pathways elicit essential regulatory influences on cancer initiation, EMT and progression. A common kinase involved in all these pathways is moon-lighting kinase glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3). These pathways are also regulated by micro-RNAs (miRs). TP53 and components of these pathways can regulate the expression of miRs. Targeting members of these pathways may improve cancer therapy in those malignancies that display their abnormal regulation. This review will discuss the interactions of the multi-functional GSK-3 enzyme in the Wnt/beta-catenin, PI3K/PTEN/Akt/mTORC, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, Hh, Notch and TP53 pathways. The regulation of these pathways by miRs and their effects on CSC generation, EMT, invasion and metastasis will be discussed.

The roles of ncRNAs in the diagnosis, prognosis and clinicopathological features of breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

A number of studies have shown that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are abnormally expressed in breast cancers. However, the roles of ncRNAs remain unclear in breast cancer. Here, we aim to investigate the potential diagnostic and prognostic roles of ncRNAs in breast cancer.

Methods

Comprehensive literature search in Medline and Web of Science and a meta-analysis were performed to identify the association between ncRNAs and diagnosis, prognosis, and clinicopathological features of breast cancer.

Results

A total of 103 eligible studies, involving16, 828 independent participants, were included in the meta-analysis. In total, there were 98 individual and 11 grouped ncRNAs. 51 studies were eligible for survival analysis, 27 studies were eligible for diagnostic analysis, and 46 studies were eligible for clinicopathological features analysis. The abnormal expression of ncRNAs is associated with OS, RFS and PFS in breast cancer patients. For the diagnosis value of ncRNAs, the pooled OR and 95% CI for sensitivity, specificity, DOR and AUC on all ncRNAs were 0.83 [95% CI: 0.82- 0.84], 0.80 [95% CI: 0.79- 0.82], 24.77 [95% CI: 17.44- 35.16] and 0.9037, respectively. The analysis showed that downregulation of ncRNAs in breast cancer was associated with decreased risk of LNM, increased tumor size and PR expression, whereas, upregulation of ncRNAs was associated with increased HER2 expression.

Conclusions

High expression of ncRNAs was associated with poor OS, RFS, and PFS, while low expression of ncRNAs was related to favorable OS and RFS. Meanwhile, ncRNAs have potential diagnostic value for breast cancer.

Long non-coding RNA NEAT1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation through the regulation of miR-129-5p-VCP-IκB

Long non-coding RNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) plays an important role in the pathogenesis and development of several types of cancer. However, the functional mechanism of NEAT1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. NEAT1 and microRNA (miR)-129-5p expression in HCC tissues and cell lines was quantified by means of quantitative PCR. The effects of NEAT1 expression inhibition or upregulation in HCC cell lines were analyzed in terms of cell viability and apoptosis. Biological software was used to predict the binding sites of NEAT1 and miR-129-5p. The expression of the miR-129-5p target molecules valosin-containing protein (VCP) and IκB was detected using Western blotting. The effect of NEAT1 on tumor growth was observed in mouse models of transplanted hepatoma. In the present study, it was concluded that the expression of NEAT1 was significantly increased in the HCC tissues and cell lines. Meanwhile, after downregulating NEAT1 expression in HepG2/Huh7 cell lines, the cell viability was significantly lowered, whereas the corresponding rate of apoptosis was significantly increased. Additionally, it was found that the NEAT1 and miR-129-5p expression showed a negative correlation in HCC tissues. It was further proved that there was a certain negative regulatory mechanism between NEAT1 and miR-129-5p, which was related to the expression of VCP and IκB. The mouse model experiments confirmed that the interference with NEAT1 expression inhibited tumor growth. The study concluded that the overexpression of NEAT1 inhibited the expression of miR-129-5p by regulating VCP/IκB, thereby promoting the proliferation of HCC cells. This study provides new insights into the pathogenesis of HCC, as well as identifying new target genes for diagnosis and treatment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The results provide strong evidence that upregulated NEAT1 promotes the proliferation of cancer cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and this regulatory mechanism depends on the microRNA (miR)-129-5p-valosin-containing protein-IκB axis. The study also indicates that NEAT1 could be a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

Recent progress on the effects of microRNAs and natural products on tumor epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a biological process of phenotypic transition of epithelial cells that can promote physiological development as well as tissue healing and repair. In recent years, cancer researchers have noted that EMT is closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors. When tumor cells undergo EMT, they can develop enhanced migration and local tissue invasion abilities, which can lead to metastatic growth. Nevertheless, two researches in NATURE deny its necessity in specific tumors and that is discussed in this review. The degree of EMT and the detection of EMT-associated marker molecules can also be used to judge the risk of metastasis and to evaluate patients’ prognosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding small RNAs, which can inhibit gene expression and protein translation through specific binding with the 3′ untranslated region of mRNA. In this review, we summarize the miRNAs that are reported to influence EMT through transcription factors such as ZEB, SNAIL, and TWIST, as well as some natural products that regulate EMT in tumors. Moreover, mutual inhibition occurs between some transcription factors and miRNAs, and these effects appear to occur in a complex regulatory network. Thus, understanding the role of miRNAs in EMT and tumor growth may lead to new treatments for malignancies. Natural products can also be combined with conventional chemotherapy to enhance curative effects.

Downregulation of delta-aminolevulinate dehydratase is associated with poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer

Delta‐aminolevulinate dehydratase (ALAD) catalyzes the second step in the biosynthesis of heme and is also an endogenous inhibitor of the 26S proteasome. The role of ALAD in breast cancer progression is still unclear. In this study, we found that the expression of ALAD was downregulated in breast cancer tissues compared with adjacent normal breast tissues. Enhanced ALAD expression was associated with a favorable outcome in patients with breast cancer. Overexpression of ALAD suppresses breast cancer cell proliferation and invasion and inhibits the epithelial–mesenchymal transition phenotype. Furthermore, we found that ALAD regulates transforming growth factor‐β‐mediated breast cancer progression. This finding suggests that ALAD might be a potential biomarker for breast cancer that suppresses breast cancer progression by regulating transforming growth factor‐β‐mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition.

miR-410-3p suppresses breast cancer progression by targeting Snail

miR-410-3p acts as an oncogene or tumor-suppressor gene in various types of cancer. However, its role in breast cancer remains unknown. In the present study, expression of miR-410-3p in 30 breast cancer and paired adjacent normal tissues was detected by RT-qPCR. The expression of miR-410-3p was downregulated in 76.7% of the breast cancer samples. To further validate the expression of miR-410-3p in breast cancer, we analyzed miR-410-3p expression profiling data set from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) including 683 breast cancer and 87 normal breast tissues. We observed that the expression of miR-410-3p was downregulated in breast cancer tissues. Next, we investigated the influence of miR-410-3p on cell proliferation by transiently transfecting the miR-410-3p mimic or inhibitor, as well as their corresponding controls in the MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cell lines. miR-410-3p overexpression reduced cell growth, colony formation and the number of EdU-positive cells in the MDA-MB-231 cells. In contrast, inhibition of miR-410-3p in the MCF7 cells resulted in a higher proliferation rate as assessed by MTT assay, plate colony formation and EdU assays. Furthermore, miR-410-3p inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In addition, Snail was found to be a direct target of miR-410-3p based on a luciferase assay. Overexpression of Snail was able to rescue the effect of miR-410-3p in breast cancer cells. Moreover, miR‑410-3p was inversely expressed with Snail in breast cancer samples. Our data provide new knowledge regarding the role of miR-410-3p in breast cancer progression.