1
|
Seyhan AA. Trials and Tribulations of MicroRNA Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1469. [PMID: 38338746 PMCID: PMC10855871 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of the link between microRNAs (miRNAs) and a myriad of human diseases, particularly various cancer types, has generated significant interest in exploring their potential as a novel class of drugs. This has led to substantial investments in interdisciplinary research fields such as biology, chemistry, and medical science for the development of miRNA-based therapies. Furthermore, the recent global success of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines against the COVID-19 pandemic has further revitalized interest in RNA-based immunotherapies, including miRNA-based approaches to cancer treatment. Consequently, RNA therapeutics have emerged as highly adaptable and modular options for cancer therapy. Moreover, advancements in RNA chemistry and delivery methods have been pivotal in shaping the landscape of RNA-based immunotherapy, including miRNA-based approaches. Consequently, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry has witnessed a resurgence of interest in incorporating RNA-based immunotherapies and miRNA therapeutics into their development programs. Despite substantial progress in preclinical research, the field of miRNA-based therapeutics remains in its early stages, with only a few progressing to clinical development, none reaching phase III clinical trials or being approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and several facing termination due to toxicity issues. These setbacks highlight existing challenges that must be addressed for the broad clinical application of miRNA-based therapeutics. Key challenges include establishing miRNA sensitivity, specificity, and selectivity towards their intended targets, mitigating immunogenic reactions and off-target effects, developing enhanced methods for targeted delivery, and determining optimal dosing for therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. Additionally, the limited understanding of the precise functions of miRNAs limits their clinical utilization. Moreover, for miRNAs to be viable for cancer treatment, they must be technically and economically feasible for the widespread adoption of RNA therapies. As a result, a thorough risk evaluation of miRNA therapeutics is crucial to minimize off-target effects, prevent overdosing, and address various other issues. Nevertheless, the therapeutic potential of miRNAs for various diseases is evident, and future investigations are essential to determine their applicability in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Attila A. Seyhan
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA;
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
miR-155: An Important Role in Inflammation Response. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:7437281. [PMID: 35434143 PMCID: PMC9007653 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7437281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, mature, noncoding RNA that lead to posttranscriptional gene silencing to regulate gene expression. miRNAs are instrumental in biological processes such as cell development, cell differentiation, cell proliferation, and cell apoptosis. The miRNA-mediated gene silencing is an important part of the regulation of gene expression in many kinds of diseases. miR-155, one of the best-characterized miRNAs, has been found to be closely related to physiological and pathological processes. What is more, miR-155 can be used as a potential therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases. We analyze the articles about miR-155 for nearly five years, review the advanced study on the function of miR-155 in different inflammatory cells like T cells, B cells, DCs, and macrophages, and then summarize the biological functions of miR-155 in different inflammatory cells. The widespread involvement of miR-155 in human diseases has led to a novel therapeutic approach between Chinese and Western medicine.
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhou H, Tang W, Yang J, Peng J, Guo J, Fan C. MicroRNA-Related Strategies to Improve Cardiac Function in Heart Failure. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:773083. [PMID: 34869689 PMCID: PMC8639862 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.773083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) describes a group of manifestations caused by the failure of heart function as a pump that supports blood flow through the body. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as one type of non-coding RNA molecule, have crucial roles in the etiology of HF. Accordingly, miRNAs related to HF may represent potential novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we first discuss the different roles of miRNAs in the development and diseases of the heart. We then outline commonly used miRNA chemical modifications and delivery systems. Further, we summarize the opportunities and challenges for HF-related miRNA therapeutics targets, and discuss the first clinical trial of an antisense drug (CDR132L) in patients with HF. Finally, we outline current and future challenges and potential new directions for miRNA-based therapeutics for HF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huatao Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weijie Tang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinfu Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianjun Guo
- Hunan Fangsheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Changsha, China
| | - Chengming Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Fangsheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Saha C, Laha S, Chatterjee R, Bhattacharyya NP. Co-Regulation of Protein Coding Genes by Transcription Factor and Long Non-Coding RNA in SARS-CoV-2 Infected Cells: An In Silico Analysis. Noncoding RNA 2021; 7:74. [PMID: 34940755 PMCID: PMC8708613 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna7040074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered expression of protein coding gene (PCG) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) have been identified in SARS-CoV-2 infected cells and tissues from COVID-19 patients. The functional role and mechanism (s) of transcriptional regulation of deregulated genes in COVID-19 remain largely unknown. In the present communication, reanalyzing publicly available gene expression data, we observed that 66 lncRNA and 5491 PCG were deregulated in more than one experimental condition. Combining our earlier published results and using different publicly available resources, it was observed that 72 deregulated lncRNA interacted with 3228 genes/proteins. Many targets of deregulated lncRNA could also interact with SARS-CoV-2 coded proteins, modulated by IFN treatment and identified in CRISPR screening to modulate SARS-CoV-2 infection. The majority of the deregulated lncRNA and PCG were targets of at least one of the transcription factors (TFs), interferon responsive factors (IRFs), signal transducer, and activator of transcription (STATs), NFκB, MYC, and RELA/p65. Deregulated 1069 PCG was joint targets of lncRNA and TF. These joint targets are significantly enriched with pathways relevant for SARS-CoV-2 infection indicating that joint regulation of PCG could be one of the mechanisms for deregulation. Over all this manuscript showed possible involvement of lncRNA and mechanisms of deregulation of PCG in the pathogenesis of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chinmay Saha
- Department of Genome Science, School of Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Kalyani, Nadia 741235, India;
| | - Sayantan Laha
- Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, 203 B. T. Road, Kolkata 700108, India; (S.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Raghunath Chatterjee
- Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, 203 B. T. Road, Kolkata 700108, India; (S.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Nitai P. Bhattacharyya
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education & Research and Seth Sukhlal Karnani Memorial Hospital, Kolkata 700020, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen S, Wu H, Zhu L, Jiang M, Wei S, Luo J, Liu A. MiR-199b-5p Promotes Gastric Cancer Progression by Regulating HHIP Expression. Front Oncol 2021; 11:728393. [PMID: 34532291 PMCID: PMC8438221 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.728393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors. More and more evidences support the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumor progression. However, the role of miRNAs in human GC remains largely unknown. Methods Based on the published gastric cancer expression profile data, combined with bioinformatics analysis, potential miRNAs in the process of GC were screened. The expression of miR-199b-5p in GC cells and patients’ plasma was detected by RT-PCR. The effects of miR-199b-5p on GC in vitro were detected by EdU proliferation assay, colony formation assay, Transwell assay and wound healing assay. Western blot was used to detect epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related proteins. The subcutaneous tumorigenesis model and metastatic tumor model of mice were used to study its effect in vivo. Bioinformatics and Dual luciferase reporter assay were used to verify the effect of miR-199b-5p and its target gene. Results Through bioinformatics analysis, we screened a novel miRNA miR-199b-5p that was significantly up-regulated in GC tissue and associated with poor prognosis of GC patients. RT-PCR results showed that its expression was also up-regulated in GC cell lines and patients’ plasma. MiR-199b-5p can significantly promote GC cell proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. Western blot showed that miR-199b-5p could promote the EMT process of GC. HHIP has been proved to be a target of miR-199b-5p, and the recovery of HHIP can weaken the effect of miR-199b-5p. Conclusion MiR-199b-5p may play an oncogene role in GC by targeting HHIP, suggesting that miR-199b-5p may be a potential therapeutic target for GC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songda Chen
- Department of Endoscopy, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Huijie Wu
- Department of Endoscopy, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Lingyu Zhu
- Department of Endoscopy, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Mengjie Jiang
- Department of Endoscopy, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Shuli Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 10th Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Qinzhou, China
| | - Jinhua Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 10th Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Qinzhou, China
| | - Aiqun Liu
- Department of Endoscopy, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Govindaraj V, Kar S. Role of microRNAs in oncogenesis: Insights from computational and systems‐level modeling approaches. COMPUTATIONAL AND SYSTEMS ONCOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/cso2.1028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandip Kar
- Department of Chemistry IIT Bombay Mumbai India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Karkhane M, Lashgarian HE, Hormozi M, Fallahi S, Cheraghipour K, Marzban A. Oncogenesis and Tumor Inhibition by MicroRNAs and its Potential Therapeutic Applications: A Systematic Review. Microrna 2021; 9:198-215. [PMID: 31686643 DOI: 10.2174/2211536608666191104103834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs appear as small molecule modifiers, which improve many new findings and mechanical illustrations for critically important biological phenomena and pathologic events. The best-characterized non-coding RNA family consists of about 2600 human microRNAs. Rich evidence has revealed their crucial importance in maintaining normal development, differentiation, growth control, aging, modulation of cell survival or apoptosis, as well as migration and metastasis as microRNAs dysregulation leads to cancer incidence and progression. By far, microRNAs have recently emerged as attractive targets for therapeutic intervention. The rationale for developing microRNA therapeutics is based on the premise that aberrantly expressed microRNAs play a significant role in the emergence of a variety of human diseases ranging from cardiovascular defects to cancer, and that repairing these microRNA deficiencies by either antagonizing or restoring microRNA function may yield a therapeutic benefit. Although microRNA antagonists are conceptually similar to other inhibitory therapies, improving the performance of microRNAs by microRNA replacement or inhibition that is a less well- described attitude. In this assay, we have condensed the last global knowledge and concepts regarding the involvement of microRNAs in cancer emergence, which has been achieved from the previous studies, consisting of the regulation of key cancer-related pathways, such as cell cycle control and the DNA damage response and the disruption of profile expression in human cancer. Here, we have reviewed the special characteristics of microRNA replacement and inhibition therapies and discussed explorations linked with the delivery of microRNA mimics in turmeric cells. Besides, the achievement of biomarkers based on microRNAs in clinics is considered as novel non-invasive biomarkers in diagnostic and prognostic assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Karkhane
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamed Esmaeil Lashgarian
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Maryam Hormozi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Shirzad Fallahi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Kourosh Cheraghipour
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Abdolrazagh Marzban
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen Z, Guo X, Sun S, Lu C, Wang L. Serum miR-125b levels associated with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) development and treatment responses. Bioengineered 2020; 11:311-317. [PMID: 32107956 PMCID: PMC7161537 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2020.1736755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Downexpression of miRs was associated with tumor development, progression, and metastasis. This study explored the serum levels of miR-125b in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and to assess its diagnostic value and monitor treatment responses for patients with EOC. A total of 379 individuals were recruited and assigned to the study groups. RT-qPCR analysis was performed to confirm the association of serum miR-125b levels with tumor stages and treatment responses. The median serum levels of miR-125b in patients with EOC were significantly lower than that of other controls (P < 0.0001). Serum miR-125b in patients with high FIGO stage (III+IV), lymph node metastasis, and chemoresistance were lower than that in patients with early-stage (stage I+ II; P < 0.001), without lymph metastasis (p = 0.032) and chemosensitivity (P < 0.001). Low levels of miR-125b had a poor prognosis in patients with EOC. Using a median value of 0.748 to separate EOC from other controls, the sensitivity and specificity reached 0.76 (95% CI 0.75 to 0.85) and 0.416 (95% CI 0.26 to 0.55), respectively. Serum miR-125b showed a statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative patients in surgical patient groups (P = 0.003). Serum miR-125b levels were lower in patients with chemoresistance than that in patients with chemosensitivity (P < 0.0001). Serum miR-125b in combination with serum CA125 improved both sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis of EOC (P < 0.001). This study demonstrated that serum miR-125b levels were a useful diagnostic biomarker and biomarker to predict the responses to chemotherapy in patients with EOC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Chen
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology II, People's Hospital of Gaotang County, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Shukai Sun
- Department of Clinical Lab, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Caixia Lu
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Liming Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ding Y, Zhong J, Wang Y, Xie W. Proteomic and microRNA-omic profiles and potential mechanisms of dysfunction in pancreatic islet cells primed by inflammation. Exp Ther Med 2020; 21:122. [PMID: 33335585 PMCID: PMC7739849 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is an inflammatory disease that induces pancreatic islet dysfunction. However, to the best of our knowledge, the potential underlying molecular mechanisms of this inflammatory process remains unknown. The present study investigated microRNA (miRNA/miR) and protein expression profiles through proteomics and miRNA-omics. Lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage cell medium (LRM) was used to stimulate inflammation in mouse Beta-TC-6 islet cells. Protein analysis revealed that 87 proteins were upregulated and 42 proteins were downregulated in LRM-treated Beta-TC-6 cells compared with control cells. Additionally, miRNA analysis revealed that 11 miRNAs were upregulated, while 28 miRNAs were downregulated in LRM-treated Beta-TC-6 cells compared with control cells. Islet cells exposed to inflammation exhibited markedly downregulated protein levels of transcription factor MafA, pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1, paired box 6, homeobox protein Nkx-2.2, synaptosomal-associated protein 25, glucagon and insulin-2, while the expression of miR-146a-5p and miR-21a-5p were upregulated. It was also determined that upregulated miR-146a-5p and miR-21a-5p levels may be mediated by NF-κB activation. The downregulation of islet functional factor mRNA was partially reversed by treating islet cells with an inhibitor of miR-21a-5p. However, treatment with an miR-146a-5p inhibitor did not exert the same effect. Overall, the present study determined the molecular profiles of islet cell inflammation based on proteomics and miRNA-omics, and indicated that the proteins and miRNAs with altered expressions may form a large network that serves a role in islet dysfunction. Particularly, miR-21a-5p upregulation in response to inflammation may contribute to islet cell dysfunction. However, how these miRNAs regulated the expression of certain mRNAs and proteins in islet cell inflammation requires further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yipei Ding
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Health Science and Technology, Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, P.R. China
| | - Jin Zhong
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Health Science and Technology, Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,Open FIESTA Center, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| | - Yangyang Wang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Health Science and Technology, Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,Open FIESTA Center, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| | - Weidong Xie
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Health Science and Technology, Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China.,Open FIESTA Center, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang D, Yang J, Fan J, Chen W, Nikolic‐Paterson DJ, Li J. Omics technologies for kidney disease research. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2020; 303:2729-2742. [PMID: 32592293 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
- Key Laboratory of Nephrology, National Health Commission and Guangdong Province Guangzhou China
| | - Jiayi Yang
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
- Key Laboratory of Nephrology, National Health Commission and Guangdong Province Guangzhou China
| | - Jinjin Fan
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
- Key Laboratory of Nephrology, National Health Commission and Guangdong Province Guangzhou China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
- Key Laboratory of Nephrology, National Health Commission and Guangdong Province Guangzhou China
| | | | - Jinhua Li
- Department of NephrologyThe First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
- Key Laboratory of Nephrology, National Health Commission and Guangdong Province Guangzhou China
- Shunde Women and Children Hospital, Guangdong Medical University Shunde Guangdong China
- The Second Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University Dongguan Guangdong China
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyMonash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University Clayton Victoria Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Integrated miRNA/mRNA Counter-Expression Analysis Highlights Oxidative Stress-Related Genes CCR7 and FOXO1 as Blood Markers of Coronary Arterial Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21061943. [PMID: 32178422 PMCID: PMC7139611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Our interest in the mechanisms of atherosclerosis progression (ATHp) has led to the recent identification of 13 miRNAs and 1285 mRNAs whose expression was altered during ATHp. Here, we deepen the functional relationship among these 13 miRNAs and genes associated to oxidative stress, a crucial step in the onset and progression of vascular disease. We first compiled a list of genes associated to the response to oxidative stress (Oxstress genes) by performing a reverse Gene Ontology analysis (rGO, from the GO terms to the genes) with the GO terms GO0006979, GO1902882, GO1902883 and GO1902884, which included a total of 417 unique Oxstress genes. Next, we identified 108 putative targets of the 13 miRNAs among these unique Oxstress genes, which were validated by an integrated miRNA/mRNA counter-expression analysis with the 1285 mRNAs that yielded 14 genes, Map2k1, Mapk1, Mapk9, Dapk1, Atp2a2, Gata4, Fos, Egfr, Foxo1, Ccr7, Vkorc1l1, Rnf7, Kcnh3, and Mgat3. GO enrichment analysis and a protein–protein-interaction network analysis (PPI) identified most of the validated Oxstress transcripts as components of signaling pathways, highlighting a role for MAP signaling in ATHp. Lastly, expression of these Oxstress transcripts was measured in PBMCs from patients suffering severe coronary artery disease, a serious consequence of ATHp. This allowed the identification of FOXO1 and CCR7 as blood markers downregulated in CAD. These results are discussed in the context of the interaction of the Oxstress transcripts with the ATHp-associated miRNAs.
Collapse
|
12
|
Computational Models in Non-Coding RNA and Human Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051557. [PMID: 32106478 PMCID: PMC7084754 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
|
13
|
Zhao C, Mirando AC, Sové RJ, Medeiros TX, Annex BH, Popel AS. A mechanistic integrative computational model of macrophage polarization: Implications in human pathophysiology. PLoS Comput Biol 2019; 15:e1007468. [PMID: 31738746 PMCID: PMC6860420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages respond to signals in the microenvironment by changing their functional phenotypes, a process known as polarization. Depending on the context, they acquire different patterns of transcriptional activation, cytokine expression and cellular metabolism which collectively constitute a continuous spectrum of phenotypes, of which the two extremes are denoted as classical (M1) and alternative (M2) activation. To quantitatively decode the underlying principles governing macrophage phenotypic polarization and thereby harness its therapeutic potential in human diseases, a systems-level approach is needed given the multitude of signaling pathways and intracellular regulation involved. Here we develop the first mechanism-based, multi-pathway computational model that describes the integrated signal transduction and macrophage programming under M1 (IFN-γ), M2 (IL-4) and cell stress (hypoxia) stimulation. Our model was calibrated extensively against experimental data, and we mechanistically elucidated several signature feedbacks behind the M1-M2 antagonism and investigated the dynamical shaping of macrophage phenotypes within the M1-M2 spectrum. Model sensitivity analysis also revealed key molecular nodes and interactions as targets with potential therapeutic values for the pathophysiology of peripheral arterial disease and cancer. Through simulations that dynamically capture the signal integration and phenotypic marker expression in the differential macrophage polarization responses, our model provides an important computational basis toward a more quantitative and network-centric understanding of the complex physiology and versatile functions of macrophages in human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Adam C. Mirando
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Richard J. Sové
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Thalyta X. Medeiros
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Divison of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Brian H. Annex
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
- Divison of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Aleksander S. Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zong D, Liu X, Li J, Ouyang R, Chen P. The role of cigarette smoke-induced epigenetic alterations in inflammation. Epigenetics Chromatin 2019; 12:65. [PMID: 31711545 PMCID: PMC6844059 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-019-0311-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) is a major threat to human health worldwide. It is well established that smoking increases the risk of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and different forms of cancer, including lung, liver, and colon. CS-triggered inflammation is considered to play a central role in various pathologies by a mechanism that stimulates the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. During this process, epigenetic alterations are known to play important roles in the specificity and duration of gene transcription. Main text Epigenetic alterations include three major modifications: DNA modifications via methylation; various posttranslational modifications of histones, namely, methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination; and non-coding RNA sequences. These modifications work in concert to regulate gene transcription in a heritable fashion. The enzymes that regulate these epigenetic modifications can be activated by smoking, which further mediates the expression of multiple inflammatory genes. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the epigenetic alterations triggered by CS and assess how such alterations may affect smoking-mediated inflammatory responses. Conclusion The recognition of the molecular mechanisms of the epigenetic changes in abnormal inflammation is expected to contribute to the understanding of the pathophysiology of CS-related diseases such that novel epigenetic therapies may be identified in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Zong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.,Research Unit of Respiratory Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangming Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.,Research Unit of Respiratory Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Jinhua Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.,Research Unit of Respiratory Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Ruoyun Ouyang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.,Research Unit of Respiratory Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China. .,Research Unit of Respiratory Disease, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhang Y, Kontos CD, Annex BH, Popel AS. Angiopoietin-Tie Signaling Pathway in Endothelial Cells: A Computational Model. iScience 2019; 20:497-511. [PMID: 31655061 PMCID: PMC6806670 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The angiopoietin-Tie signaling pathway is an important vascular signaling pathway involved in angiogenesis, vascular stability, and quiescence. Dysregulation in the pathway is linked to the impairments in vascular function associated with many diseases, including cancer, ocular diseases, systemic inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. The present study uses a computational signaling pathway model validated against experimental data to quantitatively study various mechanistic aspects of the angiopoietin-Tie signaling pathway, including receptor activation, trafficking, turnover, and molecular mechanisms of its regulation. The model provides mechanistic insights into the controversial role of Ang2 and its regulators vascular endothelial protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP) and Tie1 and predicts synergistic effects of inhibition of VE-PTP, Tie1, and Tie2 cleavage on enhancing the vascular protective actions of Tie2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Christopher D Kontos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Brian H Annex
- Department of Medicine and the Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Aleksander S Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|