microRNA-612 suppresses the malignant development of non-small-cell lung cancer by directly targeting bromodomain-containing protein 4

Regulation and therapeutic potentials of microRNAs to non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 80%-85% of total cases and leading to millions of deaths worldwide. Drug resistance is the primary cause of treatment failure in NSCLC, which urges scientists to develop advanced approaches for NSCLC treatment. Among novel approaches, the miRNA-based method has emerged as a potential approach as it allows researchers to modulate target gene expression. Subsequently, cell behaviors are altered, which leads to the death and the depletion of cancer cells. It has been reported that miRNAs possess the capacity to regulate multiple genes that are involved in various signaling pathways, including the phosphoinositide 3-kinase, receptor tyrosine kinase/rat sarcoma virus/mitogen-activated protein kinase, wingless/integrated, retinoblastoma, p53, transforming growth factor β, and nuclear factor-kappa B pathways. Dysregulation of these signaling pathways in NSCLC results in abnormal cell proliferation, tissue invasion, and drug resistance while inhibiting apoptosis. Thus, understanding the roles of miRNAs in regulating these signaling pathways may enable the development of novel NSCLC treatment therapies. However, a comprehensive review of potential miRNAs in NSCLC treatment has been lacking. Therefore, this review aims to fill the gap by summarizing the up-to-date information on miRNAs regarding their targets, impact on cancer-associated pathways, and prospective outcomes in treating NSCLC. We also discuss current technologies for delivering miRNAs to the target cells, including virus-based, non-viral, and emerging extracellular vesicle-based delivery systems. This knowledge will support future studies to develop an innovative miRNA-based therapy and select a suitable carrier to treat NSCLC effectively.

LINC01061 triggers inflammation and inflammasome activation in autoimmune thyroiditis via microRNA-612/BRD4 axis

Considering the significance of LINC01061 in papillary thyroid cancer, here, we commenced to study the role of LINC01061 in autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) and the potential mechanism. Thyroid tissues were attained from patients with AITD, and Nthy-ori 3-1 cells were induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), followed by measurement of LINC01061, microRNA (miR)-612, and BRD4 expression as well as their binding relation. The ectopic expression and silencing experimentations were carried out in LPS-induced Nthy-ori 3-1 cells to detect cell viability and apoptosis as well as inflammation and inflammasome. BRD4 and LINC01061 upregulation and miR-612 downregulation were observed in thyroid tissues of AITD patients and LPS-induced Nthy-ori 3-1 cells. Mechanistic analysis manifested that LINC01061 bound to miR-612 that negatively targeted BRD4. LINC01061 upregulated BRD4 to enhance cell viability, trigger inflammation and inflammasome activation but reduce apoptosis of LPS-induced Nthy-ori 3-1 cells by sponging miR-612. In conclusion, LINC01061 induced the occurrence of AITD by upregulation of miR-612-mediated BRD4 expression.

LINC00174 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis in renal clear cell carcinoma by regulating miR-612/FOXM1 axis

BACKGROUND

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is the most common pathological subtype of kidney tumor. Reportedly, LINC00174 is a key regulator in cancer progression. This study aims to clarify the role and molecular mechanism of LINC00174 in the progression of KIRC.

METHODS

LINC00174 expression in KIRC and its prognostic value were analyzed by bioinformatics. LINC00174, miR-612 and FOXM1 mRNA expression levels in KIRC clinical samples and cell lines were detected by qRT-PCR. After LINC00174 was overexpressed or knocked down, CCK-8, BrdU and Transwell assays were adopted to evaluate the proliferation and metastatic potential of KIRC cells. Bioinformatics and dual luciferase reporter assays were employed to validate the targeting relationship between miR-612 and LINC00174 or FOXM1 mRNA, respectively. Western blot assay was performed to detect FOXM1 protein expression in KIRC cells.

RESULTS

LINC00174 expression and FOXM1 expression were up-regulated in 42 cases of KIRC tissues (P < 0.001), while miR-612 expression was down-regulated (P < 0.001). LINC00174 overexpression or miR-612 inhibitor promoted the viability and proliferation of KIRC cells (P < 0.01). Migration and invasion of KIRC cells were promoted when the cells were transfected with LINC00174 overexpression or miR-612 inhibitor (P < 0.05). LINC00174 can competitively bind with miR-612 to repress the expression of miR-612, in turn up-regulate the expression of FOXM1 mRNA.

CONCLUSION

LINC00174 facilitates the proliferation and metastatic potential of KIRC cells via regulating the miR-612/FOXM1 axis.

PCAT6 May Be a Whistler and Checkpoint Target for Precision Therapy in Human Cancers

Simple Summary

Prostate cancer-associated transcript 6 (PCAT6), as a newly discovered carcinogenic long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), is abnormally expressed in multiple diseases. With the accumulation of studies on PCAT6, we have a deeper understanding of its biological functions and mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, the various molecular mechanisms by which PCAT6 promotes multiple tumorigenesis and progression are summarized and discussed. Furthermore, its potential diagnostic, prognostic, and immunotherapeutic values are also clarified.

Abstract

LncRNAs are involved in the occurrence and progressions of multiple cancers. Emerging evidence has shown that PCAT6, a newly discovered carcinogenic lncRNA, is abnormally elevated in various human malignant tumors. Until now, PCAT6 has been found to sponge various miRNAs to activate the signaling pathways, which further affects tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cycle, apoptosis, radioresistance, and chemoresistance. Moreover, PCAT6 has been shown to exert biological functions beyond ceRNAs. In this review, we summarize the biological characteristics of PCAT6 in a variety of human malignancies and describe the biological mechanisms by which PCAT6 can facilitate tumor progression. Finally, we discuss its diagnostic and prognostic values and clinical applications in various human malignancies.

Abnormal Circulating Maternal miRNA Expression Is Associated with a Low (<4%) Cell-Free DNA Fetal Fraction

The present pilot study investigates whether an abnormal miRNA profile in NIPT plasma samples can explain the finding of a low cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fetal fraction (cfDNAff) in euploid fetuses and non-obese women. Twelve women who underwent neoBona^® NIPT with a normal fetal karyotype were studied. Six with a cfDNAff < 4% were matched with a control group with normal levels of cfDNAff > 4%. Samples were processed using the nanostring nCounter^® platform with a panel of 800 miRNAs. Four of the maternal miRNAs, miR-579, miR-612, miR-3144 and miR-6721, had a significant abnormal expression in patients. A data filtering analysis showed that miR-579, miR-612, miR-3144 and miR-6721 targeted 169, 1, 48 and 136 placenta-specific genes, respectively. miR-579, miR-3144 and miR-6721 shared placenta-specific targeted genes involved in trophoblast invasion and migration pathways (IGF2R, PTCD2, SATB2, PLAC8). Moreover, the miRNA target genes encoded proteins localized in the placenta and involved in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia, including chorion-specific transcription factor GCMa, PRG2, Lin-28 Homolog B and IGFBP1. In conclusion, aberrant maternal miRNA expression in circulating plasma could be a source of dysregulating trophoblast invasion and migration and could represent a novel cause of a low cfDNAff in the sera of pregnant women at the time of NIPT analysis.

The Hypoxia-Long Noncoding RNA Interaction in Solid Cancers

Hypoxia is one of the representative microenvironment features in cancer and is considered to be associated with the dismal prognosis of patients. Hypoxia-driven cellular pathways are largely regulated by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and notably exert influence on the hallmarks of cancer, such as stemness, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and the resistance towards apoptotic cell death and therapeutic resistance; therefore, hypoxia has been considered as a potential hurdle for cancer therapy. Growing evidence has demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are dysregulated in cancer and take part in gene regulatory networks owing to their various modes of action through interacting with proteins and microRNAs. In this review, we focus attention on the relationship between hypoxia/HIFs and lncRNAs, in company with the possibility of lncRNAs as candidate molecules for controlling cancer.

RETRACTED: MicroRNA-375-3p in endothelial progenitor cells-derived extracellular vesicles relieves myocardial injury in septic rats via BRD4-mediated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief. Concern was raised about the reliability of the Western blot results in Figs. 1E, 4A+F, 5A+B and Supplementary Fig. 1O+P, which appear to have the same eyebrow shaped phenotype as many other publications tabulated here (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/149EjFXVxpwkBXYJOnOHb6RhAqT4a2llhj9LM60MBffM/edit#gid=0 [docs.google.com]). The journal requested the corresponding author comment on these concerns and provide the raw data. However, the authors were not responsive to the request for comment. Since original data could not be provided, the overall validity of the results could not be confirmed. Therefore, the Editor-in-Chief decided to retract the article.

LncRNA OSER1-AS1 interacts with miR-612/FOXM1 axis to modulate gefitinib resistance of lung adenocarcinoma

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in the acquired resistance to EGFR-directed therapies in lung cancer. LncRNA OSER1-AS1 has been reported to promote tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, its functions and underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear in the acquired gefitinib-resistance of lung cancer. Our study revealed that increased expression of OSER1-AS1 was correlated with gefitinib resistance in lung adenocarcinoma. Higher OSER1-AS1 expression predicted disease progression of lung adenocarcinoma patients. The in vitro assays indicated OSER1-AS1 contributed to gefitinib resistance of lung adenocarcinoma cells via inhibiting cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In vivo experiments showed that the knockdown of OSER1-AS1 restored the sensitivity of lung cancer cells to gefitinib. Further studies showed that OSER1-AS1 functioned as a molecular sponge of miR-612. OSER1-AS1 down-regulated miR-612 to increase FOXM1 expression, suggesting that miR-612/FOXM1 axis was regulated by OSER1-AS1, which was partially responsible for gefitinib resistance of lung adenocarcinoma. In conclusion, OSER1-AS1 promoted gefitinib resistance of lung adenocarcinoma through the miR-612/FOXM1 axis.

MAFG-driven osteosarcoma cell progression is inhibited by a novel miRNA miR-4660

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone malignancy in the adolescent population. MAFG (v-maf avian musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog G) forms a heterodimer with Nrf2 (NF-E2-related factor 2), binding to antioxidant response element (ARE), which is required for Nrf2 signaling activation. We found that MAFG mRNA and protein expression is significantly elevated in human OS tissues as well as in established and primary human OS cells. In human OS cells, MAGF silencing or knockout (KO) largely inhibited OS cell growth, proliferation, and migration, simultaneously inducing oxidative injury and apoptosis activation. Conversely, ectopic overexpression of MAFG augmented OS cell progression in vitro. MicroRNA-4660 (miR-4660) directly binds the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of MAFG mRNA in the cytoplasm of OS cells. MAFG 3′ UTR luciferase activity and expression as well as OS cell growth were largely inhibited with forced miR-4660 overexpression but augmented with miR-4660 inhibition. In vivo, MAGF short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or forced overexpression of miR-4660 inhibited subcutaneous OS xenograft growth in severe combined immunodeficient mice. Furthermore, MAFG silencing or miR-4660 overexpression inhibited OS xenograft in situ growth in proximal tibia of the nude mice. In summary, MAFG overexpression-driven OS cell progression is inhibited by miR-4660. The miR-4660-MAFG axis could be novel therapeutic target for human OS.

Silencing SIX1 by miR-7160 inhibits non-small cell lung cancer cell growth

The homeoprotein SIX1 is upregulated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and associated with NSCLC tumorigenesis and progression. We identified microRNA-7160 (miR-7160) as a SIX1-targeting miRNA. RNA immunoprecipitation results confirmed a direct binding between miR-7160 and SIX1 mRNA in NSCLC cells. In the primary and established NSCLC cells, forced overexpression of miR-7160 downregulated SIX1 and inhibited cancer cell growth, proliferation, migration and invasion. Furthermore, miR-7160 overexpression induced apoptosis activation in NSCLC cells. Conversely, miR-7160 inhibition elevated SIX1 expression and enhanced NSCLC cell progression in vitro. Restoring SIX1 expression, by an untranslated region-depleted SIX1 expression construct, reversed miR-7160-induced anti-NSCLC cell activity. CRISPR/Cas9-inudced knockout of SIX1 mimicked miR-7160-induced actions and produced anti-NSCLC cell activity. In vivo, intratumoral injection of miR-7160-expressing lentivirus downregulated SIX1 mRNA and inhibited NSCLC xenograft growth in severe combined immunodeficient mice. Significantly, miR-7160 expression is downregulated in human NSCLC tissues and is correlated with SIX1 mRNA upregulation. Collectively, miR-7160 silenced SIX1 and inhibited NSCLC cell growth in vitro and in vivo.

Bromodomain-containing protein 4 silencing by microRNA-765 produces anti-ovarian cancer cell activity

Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) overexpression promotes ovarian cancer progression, and represents an important therapeutic oncotarget. This current study identified microRNA-765 (miR-765) as a novel BRD4-targeting miRNA. We showed that miR-765 directly associated with and silenced BRD4. In primary ovarian cancer cells and established cell lines (SKOV3 and CaOV3), ectopic overexpression of miR-765 inhibited cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis activation. In contrast, miR-765 inhibition by its anti-sense induced BRD4 upregulation to promote ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Significantly, miR-765 overexpression-induced anti-ovarian cancer cell activity was largely attenuated by restoring BRD4 expression through an UTR-null BRD4 construct. Moreover, CRISPR/Cas9-induced BRD4 knockout (KO)inhibited proliferation and activated apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. BRD4 KO in ovarian cancer cells abolished the functional impact of miR-765. miR-765 expression levels were downregulated in human ovarian cancer tissues and cells, correlating with the upregulation of BRD4 mRNA. Collectively, BRD4 silencing by miR-765produces significant anti-ovarian cancer cell activity. miR-765 could be further tested for its anti-ovarian cancer potential.

MiR-519a functions as a tumor suppressor and is negatively associated with poor prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the major type of lung cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are currently considered as novel targets and tools in cancer therapy.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression level and functional role of miR-519a in NSCLC, as well as its clinical values.

METHODS

One hundred and two patients with NSCLC were recruited. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used for the measurement of the expression level of miR-519a. Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analyses were conducted to explore the prognostic significance of miR-519a in NSCLC. MTT and Transwell assays were used to detect the effect of miR-519a on NSCLC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

RESULTS

MiR-519a was significantly downregulated in NSCLC tissues, as well as NSCLC cell lines. The expression level of miR-519a was prominently associated with lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. Kaplan-Meier analysis suggested that low miR-519a expression was closely associated with shorter overall survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that miR-519a expression level and TNM stage were two independent prognostic factors for 5-year overall survival in NSCLC patients. In vitro study, miR-519a significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells. STAT3 was proved to be the target gene of miR-519a.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-519a functions as a tumor suppressor and inhibits tumor progression of NSCLC via targeting STAT3. MiR-519a may act as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for NSCLC.

Simultaneous microRNA-612 restoration and 5-FU treatment inhibit the growth and migration of human PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cells

Despite the recent advances in the treatment of other cancers, the 5-year survival rate of pancreatic cancer remains under 9 %. Chemotherapy and surgical resection are the most common therapy methods. The regulatory role of microRNAs in different types of cancer has given them therapeutic importance. miR-612 has been downregulated in colorectal, bladder, liver, and some other types of cancer and could be considered a tumor-suppressor miRNA. 5-FU is one of the most common chemotherapeutic agents used in pancreatic cancer treatment, which is used in multiple drug regimens and combinatorial therapy methods. The aim of this study is the evaluation of miR-612 restoration in the PANC-1 cell line and using the tumor-suppressive effect of it in combination with 5-FU on cell growth and migration. MiR-612 mimic was transfected to PANC-1 cells through electroporation. Following the transfection, expression levels of miR-612 and BAX, BCL-2, Caspase-3, MMP9, and PD-L1 genes were measured by qRT-PCR. MTT assay was used to determine the cytotoxicity of miR-612 and 5-FU on PANC-1 cell viability. To confirm MTT results and to evaluate the quantitative effect of apoptosis induction flow cytometry test was used and in order to confirm apoptosis test results and cell cycle arrest evaluation DAPI staining and cell, cycle tests were conducted, respectively. Finally, to assess the inhibitory effect of miR-612 in combination with 5-FU on migration and growth wound healing and colony formation assays were used, respectively. Results demonstrated that miR-612 alongside 5-FU has an important role in the inhibition of migration and growth and also apoptosis induction in PANC-1 cells and could be considered as a supporting agent of chemotherapy and a novel therapeutic modality in pancreatic cancer treatment.

LINC00460 Enhances Bladder Carcinoma Cell Proliferation and Migration by Modulating miR-612/FOXK1 Axis

INTRODUCTION

LincRNA (long intergenic noncoding RNA) has been indicated as a mediator in tumorigenesis of bladder carcinoma. This study was performed to evaluate the role of LINC00460 in bladder carcinoma progression.

METHODS

Expression levels of LINC00460 in bladder carcinoma tissues and cell lines were analyzed via qRT-PCR. MTT, EdU (5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) staining, and colony formation assays were utilized to evaluate cell viability and proliferation. The wound healing assay was performed to evaluate bladder cancer cell migration, and the transwell assay was used to evaluate cell invasion. The microRNA (miRNA) target of LINC00460 and the corresponding target gene were validated via the dual luciferase activity assay. The tumorigenic function of LINC00460 was determined via establishment of a xenotransplanted tumor model.

RESULTS

LINC00460 was elevated in bladder carcinoma tissues and cell lines. Elevated LINC00460 was associated with shorter overall survival of bladder carcinoma patients. Overexpression of LINC00460 promoted cell viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration, while silencing of LINC00460 indicated the opposite effect on bladder carcinoma progression. LINC00460 could directly bind to miR-612 and inhibit miR-612 expression. Moreover, LINC00460 expression was negatively correlated with miR-612 in patients with bladder carcinoma. FOXK1 (Forkhead Box K1) was identified as the target of miR-612 and upregulated in patients with bladder carcinoma. Overexpression of FOXK1 attenuated interference of LINC00460-inhibited bladder carcinoma progression. Knockdown of LINC00460 suppressed in vivo bladder carcinoma growth.

CONCLUSIONS

LINC00460 promoted bladder carcinoma progression via sponging miR-612 to facilitate FOXK1 expression, suggesting that LINC00460 might have the potential of being explored as a therapeutic target for treatment of bladder carcinoma.

Signaling pathways and microRNAs, the orchestrators of NANOG activity during cancer induction

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small part of cancer cells inside the tumor that have similar characteristics to normal stem cells. CSCs stimulate tumor initiation and progression in a variety of cancers. Several transcription factors such as NANOG, SOX2, and OCT4 maintain the characteristics of CSCs and their upregulation is seen in many malignancies resulting in increased metastasis, invasion, and recurrence. Among these factors, NANOG plays an important role in regulating the self-renewal and pluripotency of CSCs and the clinical significance of NANOG has been suggested as a marker of CSCs in many cancers. The up and down-regulation of NANOG is associated with several important signaling pathways, including JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, TGF-β, Hedgehog, and several microRNAs (miRNAs). In this review, we will investigate the function of NANOG in CSCs and the molecular mechanism of its regulation by signaling pathways and miRNAs. We will also investigate targeting NANOG with different techniques, which is a promising treatment strategy for cancer treatment.

SNHG9 was upregulated in NSCLC and associated with DDP-resistance and poor prognosis of NSCLC patients

Lung cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related mortalities worldwide and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the main subtype of lung cancer. As a first-line chemotherapeutic drug used for NSCLC, acquired resistance retarded the clinical application of cisplatin (DDP). We herein reported long non-coding RNA SNHG9 was over-expressed in NSCLC tissues and cell lines compared with normal lung tissues and cell line; Increased SNHG9 was also observed in DDP resistant NSCLC tissues and cell lines compared with their DDP sensitive counterparts. Elevated expression of SNHG9 was associated with lower overall survival (OS) rate in NSCLC patients. Besides, silence of SNHG9 suppressed DDP resistance of NSCLC cells. Furthermore, CAPRIN1 was positively regulated by SNHG9 and mediated the promoting role of SNHG9 in DDP resistance of NSCLC cells. SNHG9 could be used as a potential target for DDP resistant NSCLC therapy.

LncRNA TTN-AS1 Promotes Progression of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer via Regulating miR-491-5p/ZNF503 Axis

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer with high mortality worldwide. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) TTN antisense RNA1 (TTN-AS1) has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in a variety of cancers. This study was designed to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of lncRNA TTN-AS1 in NSCLC.

Methods

The expression levels of TTN-AS1, miR-491-5p and zinc finger protein 503 (ZNF503) were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or Western blot assay, respectively. Cell viability was detected by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell migration and invasion were assessed by transwell assay. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins were measured using Western blot assay. The relationship between TTN-AS1, miR-491-5p and ZNF503 was predicted by starBase2.0 and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft tumor experiment was conducted to analyze the tumor growth in vivo.

Results

The levels of TTN-AS1 and ZNF503 were up-regulated, while miR-491-5p expression was reduced in NSCLC tissues and cells. Knockdown of TTN-AS1 or ZNF503 suppressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in NSCLC cells. Overexpression of ZNF503 reversed the effect of TTN-AS1 silencing on NSCLC progression. TTN-AS1 could modulate the expression of ZNF503 via sponging miR-491-5p. Furthermore, TTN-AS1 induced tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

Inhibition of TTN-AS1 hindered cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in NSCLC cells by modulating miR-491-5p/ZNF503 axis, providing a promising biomarker for NSCLC treatment.

Clinical Value of Serum LHPP-associated miR-765 in the Prognosis of Laparoscopic or Open Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The current study aims to investigate the effect of tumor suppressor LHPP-associated microRNA (miR)-765 on the prognosis of laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) or open hepatectomy (OH) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction-mediated miR-767 inhibition suppresses tumor progression of non-small cell lung cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) have important roles in tumor progression in various human cancers. Ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD)-mediated gene transfection has been considered a useful tool for improving cancer treatment. The present study aimed to investigate the role of miR-767 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and further analyze the effects of UTMD-mediated miR-767 inhibition on tumor progression. The expression of miR-767 was measured by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. UTMD-mediated miR-767 inhibition was achieved by the co-transfection of microbubbles and miR-767 inhibitor in NSCLC cells. Cell proliferation was assessed by a CCK-8 assay and cell migration and invasion were examined by a Transwell assay. The expression of miR-767 was increased in NSCLC serum, tissues and cells compared with controls. The reduction of miR-767 in NSCLC cells led to the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration and invasion. UTMD increased the transfection efficiency of the miR-767 inhibitor in NSCLC cells, and UTMD-mediated miR-767 inhibition resulted in a more significant suppressive effect on tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Taken together, the results indicated that miR-767 expression is upregulated in both NSCLC clinical samples and cells. The downregulation of miR-767 can inhibit tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and these effects are further promoted by UTMD-mediated miR-767 inhibition, which indicated the potential of a UTMD-mediated miR-767 inhibition as a novel therapeutic strategy for NSCLC treatment.

Down-regulation of MBNL1-AS1 contributes to tumorigenesis of NSCLC via sponging miR-135a-5p

Lung cancer remains a big threat to human health. Growing evidence has reported the crucial regulatory effect of lncRNAs on NSCLC progression. Nevertheless, the detailed function of lncRNA MBNL1-AS1 involved in NSCLC development is poorly known. In our research, we confirmed that MBNL1-AS1 was significantly reduced in NSCLC patient tissues and NSCLC cells. Meanwhile, we reported that overexpression of MBNL1-AS1 obviously repressed A549 and H1975 cell proliferation, blocked cell cycle and inhibited the migration and invasion. Moreover, A549 and H1975 cell apoptosis was increased by the overexpression of MBNL1-AS1. Then, we predicted that miR-135a-5p was a potential target of MBNL1-AS1 and its level was correlated with MBNL1-AS1 in NSCLC negatively. Our previous study indicated miR-135a-5p could induce lung cancer progression through regulating LOXL4. Here, we found that MBNL1-AS1 was able to regulate miR-135a-5p expression negatively. The direct binding association between MBNL1-AS1 and miR-135a-5p was proved using dual-luciferase reporter assay and RIP experiment. Subcutaneous xenotransplanted tumor model was set up and it was confirmed increased MBNL1-AS1 remarkably restrained tumorigenic ability of NSCLC through sponging miR-135a-5p in vivo. To sum up, our data revealed the significance of the MBNL1-AS1 and miR-135a-5p in NSCLC. In conclusion, MBNL1-AS1 could be a new therapeutic target to treat NSCLC.

MicroRNA-4651 targets bromodomain-containing protein 4 to inhibit non-small cell lung cancer cell progression

Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) overexpression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) promotes cancer progression. Here, we show that miR-4651 selectively targets and negatively regulates BRD4 in A549 and primary human NSCLC cells. RNA pull-down experiments confirmed that miR-4651 directly binds to BRD4 mRNA. Further, ectopic overexpression of miR-4651 in A549 cells and primary NSCLC cells decreased BRD4 3'-UTR luciferase reporter activity and its expression, whereas miR-4651 inhibition elevated both. Functional studies demonstrated that NSCLC cell growth, proliferation, and migration were suppressed with ectopic miR-4651 overexpression but enhanced with miR-4651 inhibition. BRD4 re-expression using a 3'-UTR mutant BRD4 reversed A549 cell inhibition induced by miR-4651 overexpression. Further, miR-4651 overexpression or inhibition failed to alter the functions of BRD4-KO A549 cells. In vivo, miR-4651-overexpressing A549 xenografts grew slowly than control A549 xenografts in severe combined immunodeficient mice. Finally, miR-4651 was downregulated in human NSCLC tissues, correlating with BRD4 elevation. Together, miR-4651 targets BRD4 to inhibit NSCLC cell growth in vitro and in vivo.

LncRNA NNT-AS1 promotes non-small cell lung cancer progression through regulating miR-22-3p/YAP1 axis

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. Studies have demonstrated that long noncoding RNA nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase‐antisense RNA1 (NNT‐AS1) functioned as an oncogene in most malignancies, including non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of NNT‐AS1 in NSCLC progression.

Methods

The levels of NNT‐AS1, miR‐22‐3p and Yes‐associated protein (YAP1) were detected by qRT‐PCR in NSCLC tissues and cells. Kaplan‐Meier analysis was conducted to analyze the correlation between NNT‐AS1 expression and overall survival of NSCLC patients. Cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT assay. Cell migration and invasion were assessed using transwell assay. The protein levels of YAP1 and EMT‐related proteins were detected by western blot. The molecular mechanism was predicted by starBase2.0 and validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay or RNA pull‐down assay. Xenograft analysis was carried out to analyze tumor growth in vivo.

Results

We found that the levels of NNT‐AS1 and YAP1 were enhanced, while miR‐22‐3p expression was decreased in NSCLC tissues and cells. High NNT‐AS1 expression was correlated with poor prognosis. NNT‐AS1 knockdown impeded proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of NSCLC cells. NNT‐AS1 targeted miR‐22‐3p, and YAP1 was a target of miR‐22‐3p in NSCLC cells. Furthermore, NNT‐AS1 facilitated the progression of NSCLC by regulating miR‐22‐3p/YAP1 axis. NNT‐AS1 knockdown repressed tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

NNT‐AS1 facilitated proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT of NSCLC cells by sponging miR‐22‐3p and regulating YAP1 expression, which might provide a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for NSCLC.

Clinical value of CTLA4-associated microRNAs combined with inflammatory factors in the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer

Background

The current study aimed to explore the value of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4)-associated microRNAs combined with inflammatory factors in the differential diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

A retrospective study including 245 NSCLC patients and 245 healthy controls was conducted on a testing group. A regression formula for NSCLC prediction was established based on the testing group. Two validation groups from two centres were used to assess the novel logistic regression model including 144 NSCLC patients and 144 healthy controls recruited from the Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, and 128 NSCLC patients and 128 healthy controls recruited from the Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University.

Results

Predictive software and dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that miR-155-5p and miR-630 could target CTLA4 expression. The miR-155-5p and miR-630 concentrations in the NSCLC patients were significantly lower, and the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 6, cytokeratin-19-fragment (CYFRA21-1), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) concentrations and the smoking rate were significantly higher than that in healthy controls ( P <  0.05). A logistic regression model that included smoking, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, hs-CRP, interleukin 6, CYFRA21-1, SCCA, miR-155-5p and miR-630 was performed. This model presented a high discriminating value (AUC: 0.830, sensitivity/specificity: 74.6%/89.7%) than any single indicator. In the validation groups, this model still showed a high discriminating value (AUC = 0.838 with the internal validation group; AUC = 0.851 with the external validation group).

Conclusion

The current model has potential significance for the non-invasive diagnosis for NSCLC.

MiR-148b suppressed non-small cell lung cancer progression via inhibiting ALCAM through the NF-κB signaling pathway

Background

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. MiRNAs are recognized as important molecules in cancer biology. The aim of the study was to identify a novel biomarker miR‐148b and its mechanism in the modulation of NSCLC progression.

Methods

The expressional level of miR‐148b was analyzed by RT‐PCR. The effect of miR‐4317 on proliferation was evaluated through 3‐(4,5‐Dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2Htetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The effect of miR‐148b on the metastasis of NSCLC was detected through transwell assays. The verification of the target of miR‐148b was assessed by TargetScan and dual‐luciferase reporter assay. The related proteins in this study were analyzed by western blot.

Results

Our findings confirmed that miR‐148b was decreased in NSCLC and NSCLC patients with lower expression exhibited poorer overall survival (OS). Increasing miR‐148b significantly repressed proliferation, invasion and migration. More importantly, activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule (ALCAM) was determined as the direct target of miR‐148b, and reintroduction of ALCAM attenuated miR‐148b effect on the progress of NSCLC. In addition, NF‐κB signaling pathway was modulated by miR‐148b/ALCAM axis.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that miR‐148b is able to suppress NSCLC growth and metastasis via targeting ALCAM through the NF‐κB pathway. These findings provided new evidence that miR‐148b serves as a potential biomarker and novel target for NSCLC treatment.

microRNA: The Impact on Cancer Stemness and Therapeutic Resistance

Cancer ranks as the second leading cause of death worldwide, causing a large social and economic burden. However, most anti-cancer treatments face the problems of tumor recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, finding an effective cure for cancer needs to be solved urgently. Recently, the discovery of cancer stem cells (CSCs) provides a new orientation for cancer research and therapy. CSCs share main characteristics with stem cells and are able to generate an entire tumor. Besides, CSCs usually escape from current anti-cancer therapies, which is partly responsible for tumor recurrence and poor prognosis. microRNAs (miRNAs) belong to small noncoding RNA and regulate gene post-transcriptional expression. The dysregulation of miRNAs leads to plenty of diseases, including cancer. The aberrant miRNA expression in CSCs enhances stemness maintenance. In this review, we summarize the role of miRNAs on CSCs in the eight most common cancers, hoping to bridge the research of miRNAs and CSCs with clinical applications. We found that miRNAs can act as tumor promoter or suppressor. The dysregulation of miRNAs enhances cell stemness and contributes to tumor metastasis and therapeutic resistance via the formation of feedback loops and constitutive activation of carcinogenic signaling pathways. More importantly, some miRNAs may be potential targets for diagnosis, prognosis, and cancer treatments.

MicroRNA-1298 is downregulated in non-small cell lung cancer and suppresses tumor progression in tumor cells

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to serve pivotal roles in tumorigenesis. This study sough to assess the expression and clinical significance of microRNA-1298 (miR-1298) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and explore the functional role of miR-1298 in tumorigenesis.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty-one NSCLC patients were recruited in this study. The expression of miR-1298 was estimated using quantitative real-time PCR. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the prognostic value of miR-1298. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were preformed to explore the biological function of miR-1298 in NSCLC cells.

RESULTS

Expression levels of miR-1298 were downregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells compared with the corresponding normal controls. The decreased expression of miR-1298 was associated with patients' lymph node metastasis and TNM stage. The low expression of miR-1298 predicted poor overall survival and served as an independent prognostic indicator in NSCLC patients. According to the cell experiments, NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion were inhibited by the overexpression of miR-1298.

CONCLUSION

All the data indicated that the downregulation of miR-1298 predicts poor prognosis of NSCLC, and the overexpression of miR-1298 in NSCLC cells leads to inhibited tumorigenesis. The aberrant miR-1298 may serve as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target in NSCLC.

Clinical value of LHPP-associated microRNAs combined with protein induced by vitamin K deficiency or antagonist-II in the diagnosis of alpha-fetoprotein-negative hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) has received extensive attention in the differential diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), especially for AFP‐negative HCC (AFP‐NHCC). The current study aimed to explore the value of targeted regulation of LHPP expression‐related microRNAs (miRs) and protein induced by vitamin K deficiency or antagonist‐II (PIVKA‐II) in the differential diagnosis of AFP‐NHCC.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on a testing set—including 214 AFP‐NHCC patients, 200 cirrhosis, and 210 controls, and a validation set—including 140 AFP‐NHCC patients, 134 cirrhosis, and 128 controls recruited from The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University. Serum miRs were examined using quantitative real‐time PCR method. Serum PIVKA‐II was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Compared with adjacent tissues, LHPP protein levels in cancer tissues were significantly decreased (P < .05). Predictive software and dual‐luciferase reporter assays showed that miR‐363‐5p and miR‐765 can target LHPP expression. Serum miR‐363‐5p, miR‐765, and PIVKA‐II levels were significantly higher in AFP‐HCC patients than in cirrhosis and controls. A logistic regression model combining miR‐363‐5p, miR‐765, and PIVKA‐II was performed. This model presented a high discriminating value (AUC: 0.930, sensitivity/specificity: 79.4%/95.4%) than any single indicator. In the validation set, this model still showed a high discriminating value (AUC: 0.936, sensitivity/specificity: 83.6%/94.7%).

Conclusion

Current model combining serum miR‐363‐5p, miR‐765, and PIVKA‐II has potential significance for diagnosis of AFP‐NHCC.