miRNA-Based Potential Biomarkers and New Molecular Insights in Ulcerative Colitis

Inhibition of FOXO3 ameliorates ropivacaine-induced nerve cell damage through the miR-126-5p/TRAF6 axis

Local anesthetics, such as ropivacaine (Ropi), are toxic to nerve cells. We aimed to explore the role of forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) in Ropi-induced nerve injury to provide a theoretical basis for reducing the anesthetic neurotoxicity. SK-N-SH cells were cultured and treated with different concentrations of Ropi. Cell viability, apoptosis, cytotoxicity (LDH/ROS/SOD), and levels of FOXO3, miR-126-5p, and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) were detected. The enrichment of FOXO3 on the miR-126-5p promoter was analyzed. The binding relationships among FOXO3, miR-126-5p promoter sequence, and TRAF6 3'UTR sequence were verified. Combined experiments detected the regulatory role of FOXO3/miR-126-5p/TRAF6 in Ropi-induced nerve injury. FOXO3 was upregulated in Ropi-induced nerve cell damage. Inhibition of FOXO3 ameliorated Ropi-induced decreased cell viability, and increased apoptosis and cytotoxicity. FOXO3 bound to the miR-126-5p promoter and inhibited its expression, thereby counteracting miR-126-5p-induced repression. miR-126-5p inhibition and TRAF6 overexpression partially reversed the alleviative effect of FOXO3 inhibition on Ropi-induced nerve cell damage. In conclusion, FOXO3 aggravated the neurotoxicity of Ropi through miR-126-5p downregulation and TRAF6 upregulation, suggesting that FOXO3 inhibitor could be an adjuvant agent for local anesthetics, to alleviate local anesthetics-induced neurotoxicity.

MiRNAs: a new target for Chinese medicine to repair the intestinal barrier in the treatment of ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease whose pathogenesis remains unclear. Dysfunction of the intestinal mucosal barrier is closely related to the pathogenesis of UC, which is characterised by damage to the colon epithelial barrier, disruption of immune homeostasis, and persistent inflammatory cell infiltration. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) exhibit specific or differential expression in both UC animal models and patients, implicating their involvement in the pathogenesis of UC. In recent years there has been progress in using Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to regulate miRNA expression for repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier in UC, as demonstrated in animal and cell experiments. However, it has not been applied in a clinical setting and its underlying molecular mechanisms require further investigation. Therefore, this study systematically described the role of miRNAs in UC-induced intestinal barrier damage and the application of TCM to repair this intestinal barrier by regulating miRNA expression, offering new therapeutic targets for UC treatment.

Peroxiredoxin 3 Deficiency Exacerbates DSS-Induced Acute Colitis via Exosomal miR-1260b-Mediated Barrier Disruption and Proinflammatory Signaling

Aims: Peroxiredoxin3 (Prdx3) is an intracellular antioxidant enzyme that is specifically localized in mitochondria and protects against oxidative stress by removing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). The intestinal epithelium provides a physical and biochemical barrier that segregates host tissues from commensal bacteria to maintain intestinal homeostasis. An imbalance between the cellular antioxidant defense system and oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the role of Prdx3 in the intestinal epithelium under intestinal inflammation has not been elucidated. To investigate the potential role of Prdx3 in intestinal inflammation, we used intestinal epithelial cell (IEC)-specific Prdx3-knockout mice. Results: IEC-specific Prdx3-deficient mice showed more severe colitis phenotypes with greater degrees of body weight loss, colon shortening, barrier disruption, mitochondrial damage, and ROS generation in IECs. Furthermore, exosomal miR-1260b was dramatically increased in Prdx3-knockdown colonic epithelial cells. Mechanistically, Prdx3 deficiency promoted intestinal barrier disruption and inflammation via P38-mitogen-activated protein kinase/NFκB signaling. Innovation: This is the first study to report the protective role of Prdx3 in acute colitis using IEC-specific conditional knockout mice. Conclusion: Our study sheds light on the role of exosome-loaded miRNAs, particularly miR-1260b, in IBD. Targeting miR-1260b or modulating exosome-mediated intercellular communication may hold promise as potential therapeutic strategies for managing IBD and restoring intestinal barrier integrity.

Targeting Inflammation and Oxidative Stress to Improve Outcomes in a TNBS Murine Crohn's Colitis Model

Inflammation and oxidative stress are implicated in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease. Cerium oxide nanoparticle (CNP) conjugated to microRNA 146a (miR146a) (CNP-miR146a) is a novel compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. We hypothesized that local administration of CNP-miR146a would improve colitis in a 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) mouse model for Crohn's disease by decreasing colonic inflammation. Balb/c mice were instilled with TNBS enemas to induce colitis. Two days later, the mice received cellulose gel enema, cellulose gel with CNP-miR146a enema, or no treatment. Control mice received initial enemas of 50% ethanol and PBS enemas on day two. The mice were monitored daily for weight loss and clinical disease activity. The mice were euthanized on days two or five to evaluate their miR146a expression, inflammation on histology, and colonic IL-6 and TNF gene expressions and protein concentrations. CNP-miR146a enema successfully increased colonic miR146a expression at 12 h following delivery. At the end of five days from TNBS instillation, the mice treated with CNP-miR146a demonstrated reduced weight loss, improved inflammation scores on histology, and reduced gene expressions and protein concentrations of IL-6 and TNF. The local delivery of CNP-miR146a in a TNBS mouse model of acute Crohn's colitis dramatically decreased inflammatory signaling, resulting in improved clinical disease.

Circular RNA SMARCA5 inhibits cholangiocarcinoma via microRNA-95-3p/tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 3 axis

Enhancing research indicatedthat circular RNA (circRNA) acted a critical part in cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL) development. This research aims to discover the role of circRNA SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily a, member 5 (SMARCA5) in CHOL bio-progression, which has been proved to be downregulated in CHOL tissues. In this study, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to reveal the level and linkage of circRNA SMARCA5, miRNA-95-3p and TNF receptor-associated factor 3 gene (TRAF3) in CHOL tissues and cancer cells. The target sites of circRNA SMARCA5 and miRNA-95-3p were forecast by Starbase, and Targetscan was conducted to forecast the potential linkage points of TRAF3 and miRNA-95-3p, and which is affirmed by double luciferase reporter assay. CCK-8 and flow cytometry assay was carried to indicate cell viability. And apoptosis-related protein was counted by caspase3 activity and Western blot assay. CircRNA SMARCA5 was downregulated in CHOL cell lines and cancer samples. Besides, over-expression of SMARCA5 inhibited cell growth and promoted apoptotic rate. Dual-luciferase reporter assays presented that miRNA-95-3p could link with circRNA SMARCA5. Moreover, miRNA-95-3p was discovered highly expressed in CHOL. Interference of miRNA-95-3p repressed cell proliferation and raised the apoptosis. Importantly, TRAF3 was validated to be a downstream of miRNA-95-3p. Strengthen of miRNA-95-3p reversed the inhibitory impact of circRNA SMARCA5-plasmid transfection, and the results of miRNA-95-3p inhibitor were reversed by si-TRAF3. CircRNA SMARCA5 is involved in CHOL development by interosculating miRNA-95-3p/TRAF3 axis and may become a novel approach for treating CHOL.

miR-369-3p Modulates Intestinal Inflammatory Response via BRCC3/NLRP3 Inflammasome Axis

Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes expressed by immune cells in response to distinct stimuli that trigger inflammatory responses and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Evidence suggests a different role of inflammasome NLRP3 in IBD. NLRP3 inflammasome activation can be controlled by post-translational modifications such as ubiquitination through BRCC3. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of miR-369-3p on the expression and activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes via BRCC3 regulation. After bioinformatics prediction of Brcc3 as a gene target of miR-369-3p, in vitro, we validated its modulation in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM). The increase in miR-369-3p significantly reduced BRCC3 gene and protein expression. This modulation, in turn, reduced the expression of NLRP3 and blocked the recruitment of ASC adaptor protein by NLRP3. As a result, miR-369-3p reduced the activity of Caspase-1 by the inflammasome, decreasing the cleavage of pro-IL-1β and pro-IL-18. These results support a novel mechanism that seems to act on post-translational modification of NLRP3 inflammasome activation by BRCC3. This may be an interesting new target in the personalized treatment of inflammatory disorders, including IBD.

Current and emerging biomarkers for ulcerative colitis

INTRODUCTION

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic illness requiring lifelong management that could be enhanced by personalizing care using biomarkers.

AREAS COVERED

The main biomarker discovery modalities are reviewed, highlighting recent results across the spectrum of applications, including diagnostics (serum anti-αvβ6 antibodies achieving an area under the curve [AUC] = 0.99; serum oncostatin M AUC = 0.94), disease activity assessment (fecal calprotectin and serum trefoil factor 3: AUC > 0.90), prognostication of the need for treatment escalation (whole blood transcriptomic panels and CLEC5A/CDH2 ratio: AUC > 0.90), prediction of treatment response, and early identification of patients with subclinical disease. The use of established biomarkers is discussed, along with new evidence regarding autoantibodies, proteins, proteomic panels, transcriptomic signatures, deoxyribonucleic acid methylation patterns, and UC-specific glycomic and metabolic disturbances.

EXPERT OPINION

Novel biomarkers will pave the way for optimized UC care. However, validation, simplification, and direct clinical translation of complex models may prove challenging. Currently, few candidates exist to assess key characteristics, such as UC susceptibility, histological disease activity, drug response, and long-term disease behavior. Further research will likely not only reveal new tools to tackle these issues but also contribute to understanding UC pathogenesis mechanisms.

Expression and significant roles of the lncRNA NEAT1/miR-493-5p/Rab27A axis in ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to play regulatory roles in ulcerative colitis (UC). In this study, we aimed to determine the specific roles and action mechanism of the nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in UC.

METHODS

Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to determine the lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-493-5p expression levels in patients with UC and healthy volunteers. We determine the forecast linkage points of NEAT1 and miR-493-5p using Starbase and those of miR-493-5p and Rab27A using TargetScan, and further verified them using a double luciferase gene reporter kit. RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis were used to determine the lncRNA NEAT1, miR-493-5p, and Rab27A expression levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Caco-2 cells. Flow cytometry and cell counting kit-8 were used to assess Caco-2 cell viability. Tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-1β levels were determined via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Expression levels of NEAT1 were upregulated and those of miR-493-5p were downregualted in 10 ng/mL LPS-treated Caco-2 cells and patients with UC. Dual-luciferase gene reporter assay revealed that miR-493-5p is linked to NEAT1, and Rab27A is a downstream target of miR-493-5p. Overexpression of miR-493-5p inhibited the apoptosis and inflammation in LPS-treated Caco-2 cells. Moreover, downregulation of lncRNA NEAT1 expression also inhibited the apoptosis and inflammation in LPS-treated Caco-2 cells, which was reversed by Rab27A plasmid cotransfection.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed that NEAT1 participates in UC progression by inhibiting miR-493-5p expression.

Investigation of the Expression Pattern and Functional Role of miR-10b in Intestinal Inflammation

Implications of miRNAs for animal health management in livestock remain elusive. To identify suitable miRNAs as monitoring biomarkers, piglets were randomly selected for sampling on days 0, 1, 3, 7, and 14 post-weaning. The results show that miR-10b levels in the villus upper cells of the jejunum on days 3 and 7 were significantly lower than that on day 14 post-weaning and reduced by approximately 30% on day 3 and 55% on day 7 compared to day 0. In contrast, miR-10b in crypt cells decreased by approximately 82% on day 7 and 64% on day 14 compared with day 0. Next, miR-10 knockout mice and wild-type mice were subjected to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) for 7 days. The findings demonstrate that mice lacking miR-10b were more susceptible to DSS administration, as demonstrated by worse survival, greater weight loss, more severe tissue damage, and increased intestinal permeability. Moreover, the increased disease severity was correlated with enhanced macrophage infiltration, coincident with significantly elevated pro-inflammatory mediators and immunoglobulins. Bioinformatic analysis further reveals that the enriched pathways were mainly involved in host immune responses, and Igtp was identified as a potential target of miR-10b. These findings may provide new strategies for future interventions for swine health and production.

miRNAs as Predictors of Barrier Integrity

The human body has several barriers that protect its integrity and shield it from mechanical, chemical, and microbial harm. The various barriers include the skin, intestinal and respiratory epithelia, blood-brain barrier (BBB), and immune system. In the present review, the focus is on the physical barriers that are formed by cell layers. The barrier function is influenced by the molecular microenvironment of the cells forming the barriers. The integrity of the barrier cell layers is maintained by the intricate balance of protein expression that is partly regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs) both in the intracellular space and the extracellular microenvironment. The detection of changes in miRNA patterns has become a major focus of diagnostic, prognostic, and disease progression, as well as therapy-response, markers using a great variety of detection systems in recent years. In the present review, we highlight the importance of liquid biopsies in assessing barrier integrity and challenges in differential miRNA detection.

Protective role of circRNA CCND1 in ulcerative colitis via miR-142-5p/NCOA3 axis

BACKGROUND

Increasing research indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in the development of ulcerative colitis (UC). This study aimed to determine the role of circRNA CCND1 in UC bio-progression, which has been shown to be downregulated in UC tissues.

METHODS

Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the levels of circRNA CCND1, miR-142-5p, and nuclear receptor coactivator-3 (NCOA3) in UC tissues and in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Caco-2 cells. Target sites of circRNA CCND1 and miR-142-5p were predicted using StarBase, and TargetScan to forecast potential linkage points of NCOA3 and miR-142-5p, which were confirmed by a double luciferase reporter-gene assay. Cell Counting Kit 8 and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess Caco-2 cell viability and apoptosis. TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 were detected using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay kits.

RESULTS

CircRNA CCND1 was downregulated in UC clinical samples and LPS-induced Caco-2 cells. In addition, circRNA CCND1 overexpression suppressed LPS-induced apoptosis and inflammatory responses in Caco-2 cells. Dual-luciferase reporter-gene assays showed that miR-142-5p could be linked to circRNA CCND1. Moreover, miR-142-5p was found to be highly expressed in UC, and its silencing inhibited LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cell apoptosis and inflammatory responses. Importantly, NCOA3 was found downstream of miR-142-5p. Overexpression of miR-142-5p reversed the inhibitory effect of circRNA CCND1-plasmid on LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cells, and the effects of miR-142-5p inhibitor were reversed by si-NCOA3.

CONCLUSION

CircRNA CCND1 is involved in UC development by dampening miR-142-5p function, and may represent a novel approach for treating UC patients.

Fusobacterium nucleatum Extracellular Vesicles Promote Experimental Colitis by Modulating Autophagy via the miR-574-5p/CARD3 Axis

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) may be exacerbated by Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) infection. However, the mechanism underlying Fn-mediated progression of UC has yet to be established. Here, we aimed to establish whether and how Fn-derived extracellular vesicles (Fn-EVs) participate in the development of experimental colitis through microRNAs (miRNAs).

METHODS

EVs were isolated and purified by ultracentrifugation from Fn and Escherichia coli culture supernatants. Differentially expressed miRNAs in control intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) and Fn-EV-treated IECs were identified by miRNA sequencing. EVs were cocultured with IECs or administered to CARD3wt/CARD3-/- mice by gavage to assess inflammatory responses to and the mechanism of action of Fn-EVs.

RESULTS

Fn-EVs promoted upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor α), downregulation of anti-inflammatory IL-10 and intercellular tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin, and epithelial barrier dysfunction in IECs. Fn-EVs significantly aggravated experimental colitis in mice associated with Fn-EV-mediated downregulation of miR-574-5p expression and autophagy activation. Blockade of autophagy using chloroquine alleviates barrier damage exacerbated by Fn-EVs in vitro and in vivo. Inhibition of the miR-574-5p/CARD3 axis reduced the severity of colitis, epithelial barrier damage, and autophagy activation induced by Fn-EVs.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we describe a new mechanism by which Fn-EVs mediate experimental colitis severity through miR-574-5p/CARD3-dependent autophagy activation, providing a novel target for UC monitoring and targeted therapy.

Suppression of microRNA-222-3p ameliorates ulcerative colitis and colitis-associated colorectal cancer to protect against oxidative stress via targeting BRG1 to activate Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

Oxidative stress is an important pathogenic factor in ulcerative colitis (UC) and colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC), further impairing the entire colon. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) are crucial components of innate immunity and play an important role in maintaining intestinal barrier function. Recent studies have indicated that microRNA-222-3p (miR-222-3p) is increased in colon of UC and colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, and miR-222-3p is a crucial regulator of oxidative stress. However, whether miR-222-3p influences IEC oxidative stress in UC and CAC remains unknown. This study investigated the effect of miR-222-3p on the regulation of IEC oxidative stress in UC and CAC. An in vitro inflammation model was established in NCM460 colonic cells, mouse UC and CAC models were established in vivo, and IECs were isolated. The biological role and mechanism of miR-222-3p-mediated oxidative stress in UC and CAC were determined. We demonstrated that miR-222-3p expression was notably increased in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced NCM460 cells and IECs from UC and CAC mice. In vitro, these results showed that the downregulation of miR-222-3p reduced oxidative stress, caspase-3 activity, IL-1β and TNF-α in DSS-induced NCM460 cells. We further identified BRG1 as the target gene of miR-222-3p, and downregulating miR-222-3p alleviated DSS-induced oxidative injury via promoting BRG1-mediated activation Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in NCM460 cells. The in vivo results demonstrated that inhibiting miR-222-3p in IECs significantly relieved oxidative stress and inflammation in the damaged colons of UC and CAC mice, as evidenced by decreases in ROS, MDA, IL-1β and TNF-α levels and increases in GSH-Px levels. Our study further demonstrated that inhibiting miR-222-3p in IECs attenuated oxidative damage by targeting BRG1 to activate the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. In summary, inhibiting miR-222-3p in IECs attenuates oxidative stress by targeting BRG1 to activate the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling, thereby reducing colonic inflammation and tumorigenesis.

Positioning and Usefulness of Biomarkers in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BACKGROUND

Mucosal healing (MH) was proposed to be an ideal treatment goal for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Instead of endoscopy to confirm MH, biomarkers are frequently used and have become an indispensable modality for the clinical examination of patients with IBD.

SUMMARY

Common biomarkers of IBD include C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies, leucine-rich α2 glycoprotein, fecal calprotectin (FCP), and the fecal immunochemical test. Biomarkers play five major roles in the management of IBD: (1) diagnosing and distinguishing between IBD and non-IBD or ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease; (2) predicting treatment response, especially before administrating biologics; (3) monitoring and grasping endoscopic or histological disease activity; (4) replacing endoscopy for diagnosing MH, including endoscopic and histological remission; and (5) predicting recurrence before disease activity appears through symptoms. Many reports have demonstrated the usefulness of CRP and FCP for those five roles; however, they have limitations for diagnosing MH or predicting treatment response. In general, FCP has better ability in those positions than CRP; additionally, leucine-rich α2 glycoprotein can diagnose endoscopic disease activity better than CRP. The novel biomarker, prostaglandin E-major urinary metabolite, and anti-αvβ6 antibody are expected to be noninvasive and reliable biomarkers; however, more evidence is required for future studies. Oncostatin M and microRNA are also prospects, in addition to other familiar and novel biomarkers.

KEY MESSAGES

Each biomarker has a useful feature; therefore, we should consider their features and use appropriate biomarkers for the five roles to enable noninvasive and smooth management of IBD.

Long Noncoding RNA FBXL19-AS1-Mediated Ulcerative Colitis-Associated Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Defect

BACKGROUND

This study commenced to uncover the role of long non-coding RNA FBXL19 antisense RNA 1 (FBXL19-AS1) in the development of ulcerative colitis (UC) and its possible mechanism.

METHODS

FBXL19-AS1 expression in the colonic sigmoid mucosa of UC patients was detected. A colitis model was induced in mice using 5% dextran sodium sulfate. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed for histopathological examination. Apoptosis was detected by Tunel staining and tissue fibrosis was detected by immunohistochemistry. Also, intestinal permeability was examined. The concentrations of inflammatory factors IL-1β and IL-18 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relationship between FBXL19-AS1, miR-339-3p and RHOB was verified by RNA immunoprecipitation assay and dual luciferase reporter assay.

RESULTS

The expression of FBXL19-AS1 was increased in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. FBXL19-AS1 interference or miR-339-3p overexpression inhibited DSS-induced colonic epithelial cell apoptosis and inflammatory response, and improved intestinal epithelial barrier defects, thereby ameliorating DSS-induced colitis injury in mice. FBXL19-AS1 sponged miR-339-3p while miR-339-3p targeted RHOB. Overexpression of RHOB reversed the protective effect of inhibition of FBXL19-AS1 on DSS-induced colitis in mice.

CONCLUSION

FBXL19-AS1 reduces miR-339-3p-mediated targeting of RHOB and aggravates intestinal epithelial barrier defect in DSS-induced colitis in mice.

Identifying hub genes and miRNAs in Crohn’s disease by bioinformatics analysis

Introduction: Crohn’s disease (CD) is a disease that manifests mainly as chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which is still not well understood in terms of its pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to use bioinformatics analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and miRNAs with diagnostic and therapeutic potential in CD.

Materials and methods: Three CD datasets (GSE179285, GSE102133, GSE75214) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. DEGs between normal and CD tissues were identified using the GEO2R online tool. The Gene Ontology (GO) term and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were conducted using the clusterProfiler function in the R package. Protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis and visualization were performed with STRING and Cytoscape. Ten hub genes were identified using cytoHubba’s MCC algorithm and validated with datasets GSE6731 and GSE52746. Finally, the miRNA gene regulatory network was constructed by Cytoscape and NetworkAnalyst to predict potential microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with DEGs.

Results: A total of 97 DEGs were identified, consisting of 88 downregulated genes and 9 upregulated genes. The enriched functions and pathways of the DEGs include immune system process, response to stress, response to cytokine and extracellular region. KEGG pathway analysis indicates that the genes were significantly enriched in Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, IL-17 signaling pathway, Rheumatoid arthritis and TNF signaling pathway. In combination with the results of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and CytoHubba, 10 hub genes including IL1B, CXCL8, CXCL10, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL5, ICAM1, IL1RN, TIMP1 and MMP3 were selected. Based on the DEG-miRNAs network construction, 5 miRNAs including hsa-mir-21-5p, hsa-mir-93-5p, hsa-mir-98-5p, hsa-mir-1-3p and hsa-mir-335-5p were identified as potential critical miRNAs.

Conclusion: In conclusion, a total of 97 DEGs, 10 hub genes and 5 miRNAs that may be involved in the progression or occurrence of CD were identified in this study, which could be regarded as biomarkers of CD.

Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes and miRNAs for Ulcerative Colitis Using Bioinformatics Analysis

Introduction: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestine whose cause and underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to use bioinformatics analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with diagnostic and therapeutic potential in UC.

Materials and methods: Three UC datasets (GSE179285, GSE75214, GSE48958) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. DEGs between normal and UC tissues were identified using the GEO2R online tool. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were performed using Metascape. Protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis and visualization using STRING and Cytoscape. Finally, the miRNA gene regulatory network was constructed by Cytoscape to predict potential microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with DEGs.

Results: A total of 446 DEGs were identified, consisting of 309 upregulated genes and 137 downregulated genes. The enriched functions and pathways of the DEGs include extracellular matrix, regulation of cell adhesion, inflammatory response, response to cytokine, monocarboxylic acid metabolic process, response to toxic substance. The analysis of KEGG pathway indicates that the DEGs were significantly enriched in Complement and coagulation cascades, Amoebiasis, TNF signaling pathway, bile secretion, and Mineral absorption. Combining the results of the PPI network and CytoHubba, 9 hub genes including CXCL8, ICAM1, CXCR4, CD44, IL1B, MMP9, SPP1, TIMP1, and HIF1A were selected. Based on the DEG-miRNAs network construction, 7 miRNAs including miR-335-5p, mir-204-5p, miR-93-5p, miR106a-5p, miR-21-5p, miR-146a-5p, and miR-155-5p were identified as potential critical miRNAs.

Conclusion: In summary, we identified DEGs that may be involved in the progression or occurrence of UC. A total of 446 DEGs,9 hub genes and 7 miRNAs were identified, which may be considered as biomarkers of UC. Further studies, however, are needed to elucidate the biological functions of these genes in UC.

The potential role of miR-27a and miR-320a in metabolic syndrome in obese Egyptian females

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a combination of many health complications, such as obesity, high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance, with an increasing threat of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases. As the MetS develops, an alteration in the expression of some genes regulated by circulating microRNAs may also develop as a consequence. TaqMan microRNA primers specific for both miR-27a and miR-320a were used to estimate their expression levels in plasma samples collected from two groups: obese females with metabolic syndrome (n = 49) and lean healthy female volunteers (n = 23), to detect if their expression levels were deregulated with MetS.

RESULTS

The study results revealed that miR-27a was upregulated in the plasma of MetS group compared to the healthy controls, while miR-320a was downregulated (p ≤ 0.005). There was a highly significantly positive correlation between miR-27a expression and body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin resistance (represented as HOMA-IR), and triglycerides (TG), while it showed significantly negative correlation only with HDL-cholesterol (p ≤ 0.0001). miR-320a showed significantly negative correlation with BMI, WC, waist-hip ratio (WHR), FBG, HOMA-IR, and TG. The expression value of miR-320a was positively correlated with HDL-cholesterol. Area under the curves (AUC) was equal to 1.000 for both microRNAs.

CONCLUSION

Our study added more evidence that monitoring changes in expression levels of both miR-27a and miR-320a in MetS patients could help in the evaluation of disease progression, risk, and susceptibility.

The role and mechanisms of miRNA in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis

Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), the most significant causes of neonatal mortality, is a disease of acute intestinal inflammation. At present, it is not clear exactly how the disease is caused, but it has been suggested that this disorder is a result of a complex interaction among prematurity, enteral feeding and inappropriate pro-inflammation response and bacterial infection of the intestine. A microRNA (miRNA) is a class of endogenous non-coding single-stranded RNA that is about 23 nucleotides long engaging in the regulation of the gene expression. Recently, numerous studies have determined that abnormal miRNA expression plays important roles in various diseases, including NEC. Here, we summarized the role of miRNAs in NEC. We introduce the biosynthetic and function of miRNAs and then describe the possible mechanisms of miRNAs in the initiation and development of NEC, including their influence on the intestinal epithelial barrier's function and regulation of the inflammatory process. Finally, this review aids in a comprehensive understanding of the current miRNA to accurately predict the diagnosis of NEC and provide ideas to find potential therapeutic targets of miRNA for NEC. In conclusion, our aims are to highlight the close relationship between miRNAs and NEC and to summarize the practical value of developing diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets of NEC.

Role of microRNAs in the Pathophysiology of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an intractable disorder characterized by a chronic inflammation of the colon. Studies have identified UC as a multifactorial disorder affected by both genetic and environmental factors; however, the precise mechanism remains unclear. Recent advances in the field of microRNA (miRNA) research have identified an association between this small non-coding RNA in the pathophysiology of UC and altered miRNA expression profiles in patients with UC. Nevertheless, the roles of individual miRNAs are uncertain due to heterogeneity in both research samples and clinical backgrounds. In this review, we focus on miRNA expression in colonic mucosa where inflammation occurs in UC and discuss the potential roles of individual miRNAs in disease development, outlining the pathophysiology of UC.

Exosomes as a New Delivery Vehicle in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a type of chronic relapsing inflammatory disease. The pathogenesis of IBD is still unclear, which may involve environmental factors, genetic factors, intestinal microbiota disorder, and abnormal immune responses. Exosomes (30–150 nm) are found in various body fluids, including blood, saliva, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. Exosomes mediate intercellular communication and regulate cell biological activity by carrying non-coding RNAs, proteins, and lipids. There is evidence that exosomes are involved in the pathogenesis of IBD. In view of the important roles of exosomes in the pathogenesis of IBD, this work systematically reviews the latest research progress of exosomes in IBD, especially the roles of exosomes as non-coding RNA delivery systems in the pathogenesis of IBD, including a disordered immune response, barrier function, and intestinal microbiota. The review will help to clarify the pathogenesis of IBD and explore new diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for patients with IBD.

Active Ingredients and Potential Mechanisms of the Gan Jiang-Huang Qin-Huang Lian-Ren Shen Decoction against Ulcerative Colitis: A Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic and nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease, seriously affects the quality of patients' life. Han Re Bing Yong Fa (treating diseases with both cool- and warm-natured herbs) is a classical therapeutic principle of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which is often used to treat chronic diseases, including UC. The Gan Jiang-Huang Qin-Huang Lian-Ren Shen decoction (GJHQHLRSD), a representative of Han Re Bing Yong Fa, is effective in alleviating inflammatory symptoms in UC. However, the pharmacological mechanism underlying its anti-inflammatory effect remains unclear.

METHODS

A network pharmacology strategy, including the construction and analysis of the drug-disease network, was used to explore the complex mechanism of GJHQHLRSD treatment of UC. In addition, molecular docking technology was used to preliminarily examine the binding ability of the potential active components and core therapeutic targets of GJHQHLRSD.

RESULTS

The network pharmacology results revealed 140 targets of GJHQHLRSD which are involved in UC. The PPI network analysis identified seven target genes: BCL2L1, NR3C1, ALOX5, S1PR5, NR1I2, CYP2D6, and LPAR6. The molecular docking results revealed that the following displayed strongest combined effects: EGFR with kaempferol, ERK1 with worenine, STAT3 with Palmidin A, BCL2L1 with diop and VEGFA with ginsenoside Rg3. The KEGG and gene ontology enrichment analyses results indicated that GJHQHLRSD functions by regulating the EGFR signaling pathway in UC treatment. Other effective biological processes involved in UC treatment included cancer-related as well as inflammation and viral infection signaling pathways, such as the "MicroRNAs in cancer," "TNF signaling pathway," and "JAK-STAT signaling pathway."

CONCLUSIONS

This study reflects the multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway characteristics of the action mechanism of GJHQHLRSD in treating UC. Furthermore, it helps better understand the TCM therapeutic principle of Han Re Bing Yong Fa and explore novel candidate drug targets for UC treatment.