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Bacalhau M, Camargo M, Lopes-Pacheco M. Laboratory Tools to Predict CFTR Modulator Therapy Effectiveness and to Monitor Disease Severity in Cystic Fibrosis. J Pers Med 2024; 14:93. [PMID: 38248793 PMCID: PMC10820563 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The implementation of cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drugs into clinical practice has been attaining remarkable therapeutic outcomes for CF, a life-threatening autosomal recessive genetic disease. However, there is elevated CFTR allelic heterogeneity, and various individuals carrying (ultra)rare CF genotypes remain without any approved modulator therapy. Novel translational model systems based on individuals' own cells/tissue are now available and can be used to interrogate in vitro CFTR modulator responses and establish correlations of these assessments with clinical features, aiming to provide prediction of therapeutic effectiveness. Furthermore, because CF is a progressive disease, assessment of biomarkers in routine care is fundamental in monitoring treatment effectiveness and disease severity. In the first part of this review, we aimed to focus on the utility of individual-derived in vitro models (such as bronchial/nasal epithelial cells and airway/intestinal organoids) to identify potential responders and expand personalized CF care. Thereafter, we discussed the usage of CF inflammatory biomarkers derived from blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and sputum to routinely monitor treatment effectiveness and disease progression. Finally, we summarized the progress in investigating extracellular vesicles as a robust and reliable source of biomarkers and the identification of microRNAs related to CFTR regulation and CF inflammation as novel biomarkers, which may provide valuable information for disease prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Bacalhau
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute (BioISI), Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Mariana Camargo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Sao Paulo Federal University, Sao Paulo 04039-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Miquéias Lopes-Pacheco
- Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute (BioISI), Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
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2
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Douglas LEJ, Reihill JA, Montgomery BM, Martin SL. Furin as a therapeutic target in cystic fibrosis airways disease. Eur Respir Rev 2023; 32:32/168/220256. [PMID: 37137509 PMCID: PMC10155048 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0256-2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical management of cystic fibrosis (CF) has been greatly improved by the development of small molecule modulators of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). These drugs help to address some of the basic genetic defects of CFTR; however, no suitable CFTR modulators exist for 10% of people with CF (PWCF). An alternative, mutation-agnostic therapeutic approach is therefore still required. In CF airways, elevated levels of the proprotein convertase furin contribute to the dysregulation of key processes that drive disease pathogenesis. Furin plays a critical role in the proteolytic activation of the epithelial sodium channel; hyperactivity of which causes airways dehydration and loss of effective mucociliary clearance. Furin is also responsible for the processing of transforming growth factor-β, which is increased in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from PWCF and is associated with neutrophilic inflammation and reduced pulmonary function. Pathogenic substrates of furin include Pseudomonas exotoxin A, a major toxic product associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and the spike glycoprotein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the causative pathogen for coronavirus disease 2019. In this review we discuss the importance of furin substrates in the progression of CF airways disease and highlight selective furin inhibition as a therapeutic strategy to provide clinical benefit to all PWCF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa E J Douglas
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - James A Reihill
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | | | - S Lorraine Martin
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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3
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Papi C, Gasparello J, Zurlo M, Cosenza LC, Gambari R, Finotti A. The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Gene (CFTR) Is under Post-Transcriptional Control of microRNAs: Analysis of the Effects of agomiRNAs Mimicking miR-145-5p, miR-101-3p, and miR-335-5p. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:ncrna9020029. [PMID: 37104011 PMCID: PMC10146138 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9020029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: MicroRNAs are involved in the expression of the gene encoding the chloride channel CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator); the objective of this short report is to study the effects of the treatment of bronchial epithelial Calu-3 cells with molecules mimicking the activity of pre-miR-145-5p, pre-miR-335-5p, and pre-miR-101-3p, and to discuss possible translational applications of these molecules in pre-clinical studies focusing on the development of protocols of possible interest in therapy; (2) Methods: CFTR mRNA was quantified by Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). The production of the CFTR protein was assessed by Western blotting; (3) Results: The treatment of Calu-3 cells with agomiR-145-5p caused the highest inhibition of CFTR mRNA accumulation and CFTR production; (4) Conclusions: The treatment of target cells with the agomiR pre-miR-145-5p should be considered when CFTR gene expression should be inhibited in pathological conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), some types of cancer, cholera, and SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Papi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Zurlo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Carmela Cosenza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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4
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Deny M, Popotas A, Hanssens L, Lefèvre N, Arroba Nuñez LA, Ouafo GS, Corazza F, Casimir G, Chamekh M. Sex-biased expression of selected chromosome x-linked microRNAs with potent regulatory effect on the inflammatory response in children with cystic fibrosis: A preliminary pilot investigation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1114239. [PMID: 37077918 PMCID: PMC10106689 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1114239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have reported sex disparity in cystic fibrosis (CF) disease, with females experiencing more pulmonary exacerbations and frequent microbial infections resulting in shorter survival expectancy. This concerns both pubertal and prepubertal females, which is in support to the prominent role of gene dosage rather than the hormonal status. The underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. The X chromosome codes for a large number of micro-RNAs (miRNAs) that play a crucial role in the post-transcriptional regulation of several genes involved in various biological processes, including inflammation. However, their level of expression in CF males and females has not been sufficiently explored. In this study, we compared in male and female CF patients the expression of selected X-linked miRNAs involved in inflammatory processes. Cytokine and chemokine profiles were also evaluated at both protein and transcript levels and cross-analyzed with the miRNA expression levels. We observed increased expression of miR-223-3p, miR-106a-5p, miR-221-3p and miR-502-5p in CF patients compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the overexpression of miR-221-3p was found to be significantly higher in CF girls than in CF boys and this correlates positively with IL-1β. Moreover, we found a trend toward lower expression in CF girls than in CF boys of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) and the ubiquitin-editing enzyme PDLIM2, two mRNA targets of miR-221-3p that are known to inhibit the NF-κB pathway. Collectively, this clinical study highlights a sex-bias in X-linked miR-221-3p expression in blood cells and its potential contribution to sustaining a higher inflammatory response in CF girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maud Deny
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexandros Popotas
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurence Hanssens
- Institut de Mucoviscidose – Unité Pédiatrique, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Lefèvre
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Institut de Mucoviscidose – Unité Pédiatrique, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luis Alexis Arroba Nuñez
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ghislaine Simo Ouafo
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francis Corazza
- Laboratoire de Médecine Translationnelle, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Georges Casimir
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Institut de Mucoviscidose – Unité Pédiatrique, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mustapha Chamekh
- Inflammation Unit, Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Mustapha Chamekh,
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5
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Ghigo A, De Santi C, Hart M, Mitash N, Swiatecka-Urban A. Cell signaling and regulation of CFTR expression in cystic fibrosis cells in the era of high efficiency modulator therapy. J Cyst Fibros 2023; 22 Suppl 1:S12-S16. [PMID: 36621372 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2022.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a cAMP- and protein kinase A (PKA)-regulated channel, expressed on the luminal surface of secretory and absorptive epithelial cells. CFTR has a complex, cell-specific regulatory network playing a major role in cAMP- and Ca2+-activated secretion of electrolytes. It secretes intracellular Cl- and bicarbonate and regulates absorption of electrolytes by differentially controlling the activity of the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) in colon, airways, and sweat ducts. The CFTR gene expression is regulated by cell-specific, time-dependent mechanisms reviewed elsewhere [1]. This review will focus on the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translational regulation of CFTR by cAMP-PKA, non-coding (nc)RNAs, and TGF-β signaling pathways in cystic fibrosis (CF) cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ghigo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center "Guido Tarone", University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, Torino 10126, Italy.
| | - Chiara De Santi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 111St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Merrill Hart
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia Children's Hospital, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Nilay Mitash
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, United States
| | - Agnieszka Swiatecka-Urban
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia Children's Hospital, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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6
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Non-Coding RNAs in Pulmonary Diseases: Comparison of Different Airway-Derived Biosamples. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032006. [PMID: 36768329 PMCID: PMC9916756 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their structural conservation and functional role in critical signalling pathways, non-coding RNA (ncRNA) is a promising biomarker and modulator of pathological conditions. Most research has focussed on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). These molecules have been investigated both in a cellular and an extracellular context. Sources of ncRNAs may include organ-specific body fluids. Therefore, studies on ncRNAs in respiratory diseases include those on sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and exhaled breath condensate (EBC). It is worth identifying the limitations of these biosamples in terms of ncRNA abundance, processing and diagnostic potential. This review describes the progress in the literature on the role of ncRNAs in the pathogenesis and progression of severe respiratory diseases, including cystic fibrosis, asthma and interstitial lung disease. We showed that there is a deficit of information on lncRNAs and circRNAs in selected diseases, despite attempts to functionally bind them to miRNAs. miRNAs remain the most well-studied, but only a few investigations have been conducted on the least invasive biosample material, i.e., EBC. To summarise the studies conducted to date, we also performed a preliminary in silico analysis of the reported miRNAs, demonstrating the complexity of their role and interactions in selected respiratory diseases.
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7
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Bezzerri V, Gentili V, Api M, Finotti A, Papi C, Tamanini A, Boni C, Baldisseri E, Olioso D, Duca M, Tedesco E, Leo S, Borgatti M, Volpi S, Pinton P, Cabrini G, Gambari R, Blasi F, Lippi G, Rimessi A, Rizzo R, Cipolli M. SARS-CoV-2 viral entry and replication is impaired in Cystic Fibrosis airways due to ACE2 downregulation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:132. [PMID: 36627352 PMCID: PMC9830623 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-35862-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
As an inherited disorder characterized by severe pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis could be considered a comorbidity for coronavirus disease 2019. Instead, current clinical evidence seems to be heading in the opposite direction. To clarify whether host factors expressed by the Cystic Fibrosis epithelia may influence coronavirus disease 2019 progression, here we describe the expression of SARS-CoV-2 receptors in primary airway epithelial cells. We show that angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression and localization are regulated by Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) channel. Consistently, our results indicate that dysfunctional CFTR channels alter susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in reduced viral entry and replication in Cystic Fibrosis cells. Depending on the pattern of ACE2 expression, the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein induced high levels of Interleukin 6 in healthy donor-derived primary airway epithelial cells, but a very weak response in primary Cystic Fibrosis cells. Collectively, these data support that Cystic Fibrosis condition may be at least partially protecting from SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentino Bezzerri
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy.,Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Api
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Ancona, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Papi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Tamanini
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Christian Boni
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Baldisseri
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Debora Olioso
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Martina Duca
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Ancona, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Erika Tedesco
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Sara Leo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sonia Volpi
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giulio Cabrini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Blasi
- Internal Medicine Department, Respiratory Unit and Cystic Fibrosis Center, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rimessi
- Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Cipolli
- Cystic Fibrosis Center of Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy. .,Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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8
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Non-coding RNAs in human health and disease: potential function as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:33. [PMID: 36625940 PMCID: PMC9838419 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-022-00947-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Human diseases have been a critical threat from the beginning of human history. Knowing the origin, course of action and treatment of any disease state is essential. A microscopic approach to the molecular field is a more coherent and accurate way to explore the mechanism, progression, and therapy with the introduction and evolution of technology than a macroscopic approach. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play increasingly important roles in detecting, developing, and treating all abnormalities related to physiology, pathology, genetics, epigenetics, cancer, and developmental diseases. Noncoding RNAs are becoming increasingly crucial as powerful, multipurpose regulators of all biological processes. Parallel to this, a rising amount of scientific information has revealed links between abnormal noncoding RNA expression and human disorders. Numerous non-coding transcripts with unknown functions have been found in addition to advancements in RNA-sequencing methods. Non-coding linear RNAs come in a variety of forms, including circular RNAs with a continuous closed loop (circRNA), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), and microRNAs (miRNA). This comprises specific information on their biogenesis, mode of action, physiological function, and significance concerning disease (such as cancer or cardiovascular diseases and others). This study review focuses on non-coding RNA as specific biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets.
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Combined Treatment of Bronchial Epithelial Calu-3 Cells with Peptide Nucleic Acids Targeting miR-145-5p and miR-101-3p: Synergistic Enhancement of the Expression of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ( CFTR) Gene. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169348. [PMID: 36012615 PMCID: PMC9409490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene encodes for a chloride channel defective in Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Accordingly, upregulation of its expression might be relevant for the development of therapeutic protocols for CF. MicroRNAs are deeply involved in the CFTR regulation and their targeting with miRNA inhibitors (including those based on Peptide Nucleic Acids, PNAs)is associated with CFTR upregulation. Targeting of miR-145-5p, miR-101-3p, and miR-335-5p with antisense PNAs was found to be associated with CFTR upregulation. The main objective of this study was to verify whether combined treatments with the most active PNAs are associated with increased CFTR gene expression. The data obtained demonstrate that synergism of upregulation of CFTR production can be obtained by combined treatments of Calu-3 cells with antisense PNAs targeting CFTR-regulating microRNAs. In particular, highly effective combinations were found with PNAs targeting miR-145-5p and miR-101-3p. Content of mRNAs was analyzed by RT-qPCR, the CFTR production by Western blotting. Combined treatment with antagomiRNAs might lead to maximized upregulation of CFTR and should be considered in the development of protocols for CFTR activation in pathological conditions in which CFTR gene expression is lacking, such as Cystic Fibrosis.
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10
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Glasgow AMA, Greene CM. Epithelial damage in the cystic fibrosis lung: the role of host and microbial factors. Expert Rev Respir Med 2022; 16:737-748. [PMID: 35833354 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2022.2100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The airway epithelium is a key system within the lung. It acts as a physical barrier to inhaled factors, and can actively remove unwanted microbes and particles from the lung via the mucociliary escalator. On a physiological level, it senses the presence of pathogens and initiates innate immune responses to combat their effects. Hydration of the airways is also controlled by the epithelium. Within the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung, these properties are suboptimal and contribute to the pulmonary manifestations of CF. AREAS COVERED In this review, we discuss how various host and microbial factors can contribute to airway epithelium dysfunction in the CF lung focusing on mechanisms relating to the mucociliary escalator and protease expression and function. We also explore how alterations in microRNA expression can impact the behavior of the airway epithelium. EXPERT OPINION Notwithstanding the unprecedented benefits that CFTR modulator drugs now provide to the health of CF sufferers, it will be important to delve more deeply into additional mechanisms underpinning CF lung disease such as those illustrated here in an attempt to counteract these aberrant processes and further enhance quality of life for people with CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene M A Glasgow
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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11
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Qiao X, Hou G, He YL, Song DF, An Y, Altawil A, Zhou XM, Wang QY, Kang J, Yin Y. The Novel Regulatory Role of the lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA Axis in Chronic Inflammatory Airway Diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:927549. [PMID: 35769905 PMCID: PMC9234692 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.927549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory airway diseases, characterized by airway inflammation and airway remodelling, are increasing as a cause of morbidity and mortality for all age groups and races across the world. The underlying molecular mechanisms involved in chronic inflammatory airway diseases have not been fully explored. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently attracted much attention for their roles in the regulation of a variety of biological processes. A number of studies have confirmed that both lncRNAs and miRNAs can regulate the initiation and progression of chronic airway diseases by targeting mRNAs and regulating different cellular processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, migration, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Recently, accumulative evidence has shown that the novel regulatory mechanism underlying the interaction among lncRNAs, miRNAs and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) plays a critical role in the pathophysiological processes of chronic inflammatory airway diseases. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the regulatory roles of the lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA network in different cell types and their potential roles as biomarkers, indicators of comorbidities or therapeutic targets for chronic inflammatory airway diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Qiao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Gang Hou
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Lin He
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dong-Fang Song
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi An
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Abdullah Altawil
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Zhou
- Respiratory Department, Center for Pulmonary Vascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Ming Zhou, ; Yan Yin,
| | - Qiu-Yue Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jian Kang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yan Yin
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Ming Zhou, ; Yan Yin,
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Kim MD, Bengtson CD, Yoshida M, Niloy AJ, Dennis JS, Baumlin N, Salathe M. Losartan ameliorates TGF-β1-induced CFTR dysfunction and improves correction by cystic fibrosis modulator therapies. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:155241. [PMID: 35446787 PMCID: PMC9151698 DOI: 10.1172/jci155241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly effective modulator therapies dramatically improve the prognosis for those with cystic fibrosis (CF). The triple combination of elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor (ETI) benefits many, but not all, of those with the most common F508del mutation in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Here, we showed that poor sweat chloride concentration responses and lung function improvements upon initiation of ETI were associated with elevated levels of active TGF-β1 in the upper airway. Furthermore, TGF-β1 impaired the function of ETI-corrected F508del-CFTR, thereby increasing airway surface liquid (ASL) absorption rates and inducing mucus hyperconcentration in primary CF bronchial epithelial cells in vitro. TGF-β1 not only decreased CFTR mRNA, but was also associated with increases in the mRNA expression of TNFA and COX2 and TNF-α protein. Losartan improved TGF-β1-mediated inhibition of ETI-corrected F508del-CFTR function and reduced TNFA and COX2 mRNA and TNF-α protein expression. This likely occurred by improving correction of mutant CFTR rather than increasing its mRNA (without an effect on potentiation), thereby reversing the negative effects of TGF-β1 and improving ASL hydration in the CF airway epithelium in vitro. Importantly, these effects were independent of type 1 angiotensin II receptor inhibition.
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13
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Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and the closely related SARS-CoV-2 are emergent highly pathogenic human respiratory viruses causing acute lethal disease associated with lung damage and dysregulated inflammatory responses. SARS-CoV envelope protein (E) is a virulence factor involved in the activation of various inflammatory pathways. Here, we study the contribution of host miRNAs to the virulence mediated by E protein. Small RNAseq analysis of infected mouse lungs identified miRNA-223 as a potential regulator of pulmonary inflammation, since it was significantly increased in SARS-CoV-WT virulent infection compared to the attenuated SARS-CoV-ΔE infection. In vivo inhibition of miRNA-223-3p increased mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and NLRP3 inflammasome, suggesting that during lung infection, miRNA-223 might contribute to restrict an excessive inflammatory response. Interestingly, miRNA-223-3p inhibition also increased the levels of the CFTR transporter, which is involved in edema resolution and was significantly downregulated in the lungs of mice infected with the virulent SARS-CoV-WT virus. At the histopathological level, a decrease in the pulmonary edema was observed when miR-223-3p was inhibited, suggesting that miRNA-223-3p was involved in the regulation of the SARS-CoV-induced inflammatory pathology. These results indicate that miRNA-223 participates in the regulation of E protein-mediated inflammatory response during SARS-CoV infection by targeting different host mRNAs involved in the pulmonary inflammation, and identify miRNA-223 as a potential therapeutic target in SARS-CoV infection.
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14
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The role of microRNAs in COVID-19 with a focus on miR-200c. J Circ Biomark 2022; 11:14-23. [PMID: 35356072 PMCID: PMC8939267 DOI: 10.33393/jcb.2022.2356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Epigenetics is a quickly spreading scientific field, and the study of epigenetic regulation in various diseases such as infectious diseases is emerging. The microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) as one of the types of epigenetic processes bind to their target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and regulate their stability and/or translation. This study aims to evaluate non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with a focus on miR-200c in COVID-19. In this review, we first define the epigenetics and miRNAs, and then the role of miRNAs in diseases focusing on lung diseases is explained. Finally, in this study, we will investigate the role and position of miRNAs with a focus on miR-200c in viral and severe acute respiratory syndrome–related coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) infections. Methods: Systematic search of MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library was conducted for all relative papers from 2000 to 2021 with the limitations of the English language. Finally, we selected 128 articles which fit the best to our objective of study, among which 5 articles focused on the impact of miR-200c. Results: Due to the therapeutic results of various drugs in different races and populations, epigenetic processes, especially miRNAs, are important. The overall results showed that different types of miRNAs can be effective on the process of various lung diseases through different target pathways and genes. It is likely that amplified levels of miR-200c may lead to decreased angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) expression, which in turn may increase the potential of infection, inflammation, and the complications of coronavirus disease. Conclusion: miR-200c and its correlation with ACE2 can be used as early prognostic and diagnostic markers.
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15
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Identification of human microRNAs targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa genes by an in silico hybridization method. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2022.101110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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16
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Soni DK, Biswas R. Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Lung Diseases. Front Genet 2021; 12:767348. [PMID: 34819948 PMCID: PMC8606426 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.767348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), notably microRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), have recently gained increasing consideration because of their versatile role as key regulators of gene expression. They adopt diverse mechanisms to regulate transcription and translation, and thereby, the function of the protein, which is associated with several major biological processes. For example, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolic pathways demand fine-tuning for the precise development of a specific tissue or organ. The deregulation of ncRNA expression is concomitant with multiple diseases, including lung diseases. This review highlights recent advances in the post-transcriptional regulation of miRNAs and lncRNAs in lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Further, we also discuss the emerging role of ncRNAs as biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets for lung diseases. However, more investigations are required to explore miRNAs and lncRNAs interaction, and their function in the regulation of mRNA expression. Understanding these mechanisms might lead to early diagnosis and the development of novel therapeutics for lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmendra Kumar Soni
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Roopa Biswas
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Ning J, Du H, Zhang Y, Liu Q, Jiang T, Pang Y, Tian X, Yan L, Niu Y, Zhang R. N6-methyladenosine modification of CDH1 mRNA promotes PM2.5-induced pulmonary fibrosis via mediating epithelial mesenchymal transition. Toxicol Sci 2021; 185:143-157. [PMID: 34735003 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between ambient airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and respiratory diseases has been investigated in epidemiological studies. To explore the potential mechanism of PM2.5-induced pulmonary fibrosis, sixty mice were divided into 3 groups to expose to different levels of PM2.5 for 8 and 16 weeks: filtered air (FA), unfiltered air (UA) and concentrated PM2.5 air (CA), respectively. BEAS-2B cells were treated with 0, 25, 50 and 100 μg/ml PM2.5 for 24 h. The biomarkers of pulmonary fibrosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and metabolism of mRNAs were detected to characterize the effect of PM2.5 exposure. The results illustrated that PM2.5 exposure induced pathological alteration and pulmonary fibrosis in mice. The expression of E-cadherin (E-cad) was decreased whereas vimentin and N-cadherin (N-cad) expression were increased in a dose- and time-dependent manner after PM2.5 exposure. Mechanistically, PM2.5 exposure increased the levels of METTL3-mediated m6A modification of CDH1 mRNA. As a target gene of miR-494-3p, YTHDF2 was up-regulated by miR-494-3p down-regulation and then recognized m6A-modified CDH1 mRNA to inhibit the E-cad expression, consequently induced the EMT progression after PM2.5 exposure. Our study indicated that PM2.5 exposure triggered EMT progression to promote the pulmonary fibrosis via miR-494-3p/YTHDF2 recognized and METTL3 mediated m6A modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ning
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Hairong Du
- Guangming District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518016, China Guangdong PR
| | - Yaling Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Qingping Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Yaxian Pang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Xiaochen Tian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050011, PR China
| | - Liqun Yan
- Departments of Radiology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, PR, 050000, China
| | - Yujie Niu
- Department of Occupation Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
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18
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Dutta RK, Chinnapaiyan S, Santiago MJ, Rahman I, Unwalla HJ. Gene-specific MicroRNA antagonism protects against HIV Tat and TGF-β-mediated suppression of CFTR mRNA and function. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 142:112090. [PMID: 34463266 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs play an important role in health and disease. TGF-β signaling, upregulated by HIV Tat, and in chronic airway diseases and smokers upregulates miR-145-5p to suppress cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CFTR suppression in chronic airway diseases like Cystic Fibrosis, COPD and smokers has been associated with suppressed MCC and recurrent lung infections and inflammation. This can explain the emergence of recurrent lung infections and inflammation in people living with HIV. METHODS Tat-induced aberrant microRNAome was identified by miRNA expression analysis. microRNA mimics and antagomirs were used to validate the identified miRNAs involved in Tat mediated CFTR mRNA suppression. CRISPR-based editing of the miRNA target sites in CFTR 3'UTR was used to determine rescue of CFTR mRNA and function in airway epithelial cell lines and in primary human bronchial epithelial cells exposed to TGF-β and Tat. FINDINGS HIV Tat upregulates miR-145-5p and miR-509-3p. The two miRNAs demonstrate co-operative effects in suppressing CFTR. CRISPR-based editing of the miRNA target site preserves CFTR mRNA and function in airway epithelial cells INTERPRETATION: Given the important roles of TGF-β signaling and the multitude of genes regulated by miRNAs, we demonstrate that CRISPR-based gene-specific microRNA antagonism approach can preserve CFTR mRNA and function in the context of HIV Tat and TGF-β signaling without suppressing expression of other genes regulated by miR-145-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Dutta
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - S Chinnapaiyan
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - M J Santiago
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - I Rahman
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Departments of Environmental Medicine and Pulmonary Medicine, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - H J Unwalla
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
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MicroRNA Targets for Asthma Therapy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1303:89-105. [PMID: 33788189 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-63046-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory obstructive lung disease that is stratified into endotypes. Th2 high asthma is due to an imbalance of Th1/Th2 signaling leading to abnormally high levels of Th2 cytokines, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 and in some cases a reduction in type I interferons. Some asthmatics express Th2 low, Th1/Th17 high phenotypes with or without eosinophilia. Most asthmatics with Th2 high phenotype respond to beta-adrenergic agonists, muscarinic antagonists, and inhaled corticosteroids. However, 5-10% of asthmatics are not well controlled by these therapies despite significant advances in lung immunology and the pathogenesis of severe asthma. This problem is being addressed by developing novel classes of anti-inflammatory agents. Numerous studies have established efficacy of targeting pro-inflammatory microRNAs in mouse models of mild/moderate and severe asthma. Current approaches employ microRNA mimics and antagonists designed for use in vivo. Chemically modified oligonucleotides have enhanced stability in blood, increased cell permeability, and optimized target specificity. Delivery to lung tissue limits clinical applications, but it is a tractable problem. Future studies need to define the most effective microRNA targets and effective delivery systems. Successful oligonucleotide drug candidates must have adequate lung cell uptake, high target specificity, and efficacy with tolerable off-target effects.
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20
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Gasparello J, Fabbri E, Gambari R, Finotti A. Differential effects on the miRNome of the treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with peptide-nucleic acids (PNAs) targeting microRNAs miR-101-3p and miR-145-5p: Next generation sequencing datasets. Data Brief 2021; 35:106718. [PMID: 33553515 PMCID: PMC7846929 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2021.106718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the demonstration that microRNAs are deeply involved in the regulation of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene, a great attention has been dedicated to possible alteration of the CFTR gene expression by targeting miRNAs causing down-regulation of CFTR and CFTR-associated proteins. The data here presented are related to previously published studies on the effects of treatment of human bronchial cells of PNAs targeting miR-101-3p and miR-145-5p (microRNAs shown to regulate the CFTR mRNA). These data here presented are relative to two companion articles "Treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with a Peptide-Nucleic Acid (PNA) targeting the microRNA miR-101-3p is associated with increased expression of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene" (published in European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2020) and "Peptide Nucleic Acids for MicroRNA Targeting" (published in Methods in Molecular Biology, 2020). The data obtained indicate that, while the expression of most microRNAs is not affected by PNA treatment, some of them are strongly modulated. In particular, some microRNAs involved in CF and/or CFTR regulation are co-inhibited by miR-101-3p and miR-145-5p. Among them, miR-155-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-132-3p and miR-6873-3p. This has been demonstrated by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) followed by RT-qPCR and RT-ddPCR validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Corresponding author at: Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Research Center on Innovative Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis, Ferrara University, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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21
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Maule G, Ensinck M, Bulcaen M, Carlon MS. Rewriting CFTR to cure cystic fibrosis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2021; 182:185-224. [PMID: 34175042 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive monogenic disease caused by mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene. Although F508del is the most frequent mutation, there are in total 360 confirmed disease-causing CFTR mutations, impairing CFTR production, function and stability. Currently, the only causal treatments available are CFTR correctors and potentiators that directly target the mutant protein. While these pharmacological advances and better symptomatic care have improved life expectancy of people with CF, none of these treatments provides a cure. The discovery and development of programmable nucleases, in particular CRISPR nucleases and derived systems, rekindled the field of CF gene therapy, offering the possibility of a permanent correction of the CFTR gene. In this review we will discuss different strategies to restore CFTR function via gene editing correction of CFTR mutations or enhanced CFTR expression, and address how best to deliver these treatments to target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Maule
- Department CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Trento, Italy
| | - Marjolein Ensinck
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Mattijs Bulcaen
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Marianne S Carlon
- Molecular Virology and Gene Therapy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.
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22
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Tamanini A, Fabbri E, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. A Peptide-Nucleic Acid Targeting miR-335-5p Enhances Expression of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ( CFTR) Gene with the Possible Involvement of the CFTR Scaffolding Protein NHERF1. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020117. [PMID: 33530577 PMCID: PMC7911309 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Up-regulation of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator gene (CFTR) might be of great relevance for the development of therapeutic protocols for cystic fibrosis (CF). MicroRNAs are deeply involved in the regulation of CFTR and scaffolding proteins (such as NHERF1, NHERF2 and Ezrin). (2) Methods: Content of miRNAs and mRNAs was analyzed by RT-qPCR, while the CFTR and NHERF1 production was analyzed by Western blotting. (3) Results: The results here described show that the CFTR scaffolding protein NHERF1 can be up-regulated in bronchial epithelial Calu-3 cells by a peptide-nucleic acid (PNA) targeting miR-335-5p, predicted to bind to the 3′-UTR sequence of the NHERF1 mRNA. Treatment of Calu-3 cells with this PNA (R8-PNA-a335) causes also up-regulation of CFTR. (4) Conclusions: We propose miR-335-5p targeting as a strategy to increase CFTR. While the efficiency of PNA-based targeting of miR-335-5p should be verified as a therapeutic strategy in CF caused by stop-codon mutation of the CFTR gene, this approach might give appreciable results in CF cells carrying other mutations impairing the processing or stability of CFTR protein, supporting its application in personalized therapy for precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tamanini
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University-Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (A.T.); (S.M.)
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy; (T.J.); (A.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy; (T.J.); (A.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy; (T.J.); (A.M.); (R.C.)
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Silvia Munari
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University-Hospital of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy; (A.T.); (S.M.)
| | - Maria Cristina Dechecchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy;
| | - Giulio Cabrini
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy;
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (E.F.); (J.G.); (A.F.); (M.B.); (I.L.)
- Research Center on Innovative Therapies for Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-974443
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23
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Abstract
The involvement of microRNAs in human pathologies is firmly established. Accordingly, the pharmacological modulation of microRNA activity appears to be a very interesting approach in the development of new types of drugs (miRNA therapeutics). One important research area is the possible development of miRNA therapeutics in the field of rare diseases. In this respect, appealing molecules are based on peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), displaying, in their first description, a pseudo-peptide backbone composed of N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine units, and found to be excellent candidates for antisense and antigene therapies. The aim of the present article is to describe methods for determining the activity of PNAs designed to target microRNAs involved in cystic fibrosis, using as model system miR-145-5p and its target cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mRNA. The methods employed to study the effects of PNAs targeting miR-145-5p are presented here by discussing data obtained using as cellular model system the human lung epithelial Calu-3 cell line.
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Paul S, Ruiz-Manriquez LM, Ledesma-Pacheco SJ, Benavides-Aguilar JA, Torres-Copado A, Morales-Rodríguez JI, De Donato M, Srivastava A. Roles of microRNAs in chronic pediatric diseases and their use as potential biomarkers: A review. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 699:108763. [PMID: 33460581 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding highly conserved RNA molecules that can act as master regulators of gene expression in a sequence-specific manner either by translation repression or mRNA degradation, influencing a wide range of biologic processes that are essential for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Chronic pediatric diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide among children and the recent evidence indicates that aberrant miRNA expression significantly contributes to the development of chronic pediatric diseases. This review focuses on the role of miRNAs in five major chronic pediatric diseases including bronchial asthma, congenital heart diseases, cystic fibrosis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and epilepsy, and their potential use as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujay Paul
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico.
| | - Luis M Ruiz-Manriquez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - S Janin Ledesma-Pacheco
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Javier A Benavides-Aguilar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Andrea Torres-Copado
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Jonathan I Morales-Rodríguez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Marcos De Donato
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Queretaro, Av. Epigmenio Gonzalez, No. 500 Fracc. San Pablo, 76130, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Aashish Srivastava
- Section of Bioinformatics, Clinical Laboratory, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, 5021, Norway; Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, 5021, Norway
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25
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A bird eye view on cystic fibrosis: An underestimated multifaceted chronic disorder. Life Sci 2020; 268:118959. [PMID: 33383045 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease which involves the mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. CF involves in the inflammatory processes and is considered as a multisystem disorder that is not confined to lungs, but it also affects other vital organs that leads to numerous co-morbidities. The respiratory disorder in the CF results in mortality and morbidity which is characterized by series of serious events involving mucus hypersecretion, microbial infections, airways obstruction, inflammation, destruction of epithelium, tissue remodeling and terminal lung diseases. Mucins are the high molecular weight glycoproteins important for the viscoelastic properties of the mucus, play a significant role in the disease mechanisms. Determining the functional association between the CFTR and mucins might help to identify the putative target for specific therapeutic approach. In fact, furin enzyme which helps in the entry of novel COVID-19 virus into the cell, is upregulated in CF and this can also serve as a potential target for CF treatment. Moreover, the use of nano-formulations for CF treatment is an area of research being widely studied as they have also demonstrated promising outcomes. The in-depth knowledge of non-coding RNAs like miRNAs and lncRNAs and their functional association with CFTR gene expression and mutation can provide a different range of opportunity to identify the promising therapeutic approaches for CF.
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26
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De Palma FDE, Raia V, Kroemer G, Maiuri MC. The Multifaceted Roles of MicroRNAs in Cystic Fibrosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E1102. [PMID: 33348555 PMCID: PMC7765910 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10121102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a lifelong disorder affecting 1 in 3500 live births worldwide. It is a monogenetic autosomal recessive disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding the chloride channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), the impairment of which leads to ionic disequilibria in exocrine organs. This translates into a chronic multisystemic disease characterized by airway obstruction, respiratory infections, and pancreatic insufficiency as well as hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Molecular characterization of the mutational heterogeneity of CFTR (affected by more than 2000 variants) improved the understanding and management of CF. However, these CFTR variants are linked to different clinical manifestations and phenotypes, and they affect response to treatments. Expanding evidence suggests that multisystemic disease affects CF pathology via impairing either CFTR or proteins regulated by CFTR. Thus, altering the expression of miRNAs in vivo could constitute an appealing strategy for developing new CF therapies. In this review, we will first describe the pathophysiology and clinical management of CF. Then, we will summarize the current knowledge on altered miRNAs in CF patients, with a focus on the miRNAs involved in the deregulation of CFTR and in the modulation of inflammation. We will highlight recent findings on the potential utility of measuring circulating miRNAs in CF as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers. Finally, we will provide an overview on potential miRNA-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Domenica Elisa De Palma
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Raia
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Regional Cystic Fibrosis Center, Federico II University Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
- Suzhou Institute for Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- Pôle de Biologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, 75015 Paris, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Maria Chiara Maiuri
- Equipe 11 Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM UMRS 1138, Sorbonne Université, Université of Paris, 75006 Paris, France;
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Institute, 94805 Villejuif, France
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Pommier A, Varilh J, Bleuse S, Delétang K, Bonini J, Bergougnoux A, Brochiero E, Koenig M, Claustres M, Taulan-Cadars M. miRNA repertoires of cystic fibrosis ex vivo models highlight miR-181a and miR-101 that regulate WISP1 expression. J Pathol 2020; 253:186-197. [PMID: 33095908 DOI: 10.1002/path.5571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder, is characterized by chronic lung disease. Small non-coding RNAs are key regulators of gene expression and participate in various processes, which are dysregulated in CF; however, they remain poorly studied. Here, we determined the complete microRNAs (miRNAs) expression pattern in three CF ex vivo models. The miRNA profiles of air-liquid interface cultures of airway epithelia (bronchi, nasal cells, and nasal polyps) samples from patients with CF and non-CF controls were obtained by deep sequencing. Compared with non-CF controls, several miRNAs were deregulated in CF samples; for instance, miR-181a-5p and the miR-449 family were upregulated. Moreover, mature miRNAs often showed variations (i.e. isomiRs) relative to their reference sequence, such as miR-101, suggesting that miRNAs consist of heterogeneous repertoires of multiple isoforms with different effects on gene expression. Analysis of miR-181a-5p and miR-101-3p roles indicated that they regulate the expression of WISP1, a key component of cell proliferation/migration programs. We showed that miR-101 and miR-181a-5p participated in aberrant recapitulation of wound healing programs by controlling WISP1 mRNA and protein level. Our miRNA expression data bring new insights into CF physiopathology and define new potential therapeutic targets in CF. © 2020 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pommier
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Jessica Varilh
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Solenne Bleuse
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Karine Delétang
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Jennifer Bonini
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Anne Bergougnoux
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France.,CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuelle Brochiero
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Michel Koenig
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France.,CHU de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Mireille Claustres
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
| | - Magali Taulan-Cadars
- Université de Montpellier, Laboratoire de Génétique de Maladies Rares EA7402, Montpellier, France
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Fabbri E, Tamanini A, Jakova T, Gasparello J, Manicardi A, Corradini R, Finotti A, Borgatti M, Lampronti I, Munari S, Dechecchi MC, Cabrini G, Gambari R. Treatment of human airway epithelial Calu-3 cells with a peptide-nucleic acid (PNA) targeting the microRNA miR-101-3p is associated with increased expression of the cystic fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator () gene. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 209:112876. [PMID: 33127171 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in the regulation of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene, miRNAs known to down-regulate the expression of the CFTR and associated proteins have been investigated as potential therapeutic targets. Here we show that miR-101-3p, targeting the 3'-UTR sequence of the CFTR mRNA, can be selectively inhibited by a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) carrying a full complementary sequence. With respect to clinical relevance of microRNA targeting, it is expected that reduction in concentration of miRNAs (the anti-miRNA approach) could be associated with increasing amounts of target mRNAs. Consistently to this hypothesis, we report that PNA-mediated inhibition of miR-101-3p was accompanied by CFTR up-regulation. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) was performed in order to verify the effects of the anti-miR-101-3p PNA on the Calu-3 miRNome. Upon inhibition of miR-101-3p we observed a fold change (FC) expression <2 of the majority of miRNAs (403/479, 84.13%), whereas we identified a list of dysregulated miRNAs, suggesting that specific miRNA inhibition (in our case miR-101-3p) might be accompanied by alteration of expression of other miRNAs, some of them known to be involved in Cystic Fibrosis (CF), such as miR-155-5p and miR-125b-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Tamanini
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University Hospital of Verona, Italy
| | - Tiziana Jakova
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy; Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, University of Ghent, Belgium
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Munari
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University Hospital of Verona, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Cabrini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; Research Center for Innovative Therapies of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Research Center for Innovative Therapies of Cystic Fibrosis, University of Ferrara, Italy.
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Rezaei S, Mahjoubin-Tehran M, Aghaee-Bakhtiari SH, Jalili A, Movahedpour A, Khan H, Moghoofei M, Shojaei Z, R Hamblin M, Mirzaei H. Autophagy-related MicroRNAs in chronic lung diseases and lung cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 153:103063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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The Role of MicroRNA in the Airway Surface Liquid Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113848. [PMID: 32481719 PMCID: PMC7312818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucociliary clearance, mediated by a coordinated function of cilia bathing in the airway surface liquid (ASL) on the surface of airway epithelium, protects the host from inhaled pathogens and is an essential component of the innate immunity. ASL is composed of the superficial mucus layer and the deeper periciliary liquid. Ion channels, transporters, and pumps coordinate the transcellular and paracellular movement of ions and water to maintain the ASL volume and mucus hydration. microRNA (miRNA) is a class of non-coding, short single-stranded RNA regulating gene expression by post-transcriptional mechanisms. miRNAs have been increasingly recognized as essential regulators of ion channels and transporters responsible for ASL homeostasis. miRNAs also influence the airway host defense. We summarize the most up-to-date information on the role of miRNAs in ASL homeostasis and host-pathogen interactions in the airway and discuss concepts for miRNA-directed therapy.
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31
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Roffel MP, Bracke KR, Heijink IH, Maes T. miR-223: A Key Regulator in the Innate Immune Response in Asthma and COPD. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:196. [PMID: 32509795 PMCID: PMC7249736 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are chronic obstructive respiratory diseases characterized by airway obstruction, inflammation, and remodeling. Recent findings indicate the importance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of pathological processes involved in both diseases. MiRNAs have been implicated in a wide array of biological processes, such as inflammation, cell proliferation, differentiation, and death. MiR-223 is one of the miRNAs that is thought to play a role in obstructive lung disease as altered expression levels have been observed in both asthma and COPD. MiR-223 is a hematopoietic cell–derived miRNA that plays a role in regulation of monocyte-macrophage differentiation, neutrophil recruitment, and pro-inflammatory responses and that can be transferred to non-myeloid cells via extracellular vesicles or lipoproteins. In this translational review, we highlight the role of miR-223 in obstructive respiratory diseases, focusing on expression data in clinical samples of asthma and COPD, in vivo experiments in mouse models and in vitro functional studies. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the mechanisms by which miR-223 regulates gene expression. We specifically focus on immune cell development and activation and involvement in immune responses, which are important in asthma and COPD. Collectively, this review demonstrates the importance of miR-223 in obstructive respiratory diseases and explores its therapeutic potential in the pathogenesis of asthma and COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam P Roffel
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Departments of Pathology and Medical Biology and Pulmonology, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ken R Bracke
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Irene H Heijink
- Departments of Pathology and Medical Biology and Pulmonology, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Tania Maes
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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32
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Bene Z, Fejes Z, Macek M, Amaral MD, Balogh I, Nagy B. Laboratory biomarkers for lung disease severity and progression in cystic fibrosis. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 508:277-286. [PMID: 32428503 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Although the clinical outcomes of cystic fibrosis (CF) have been markedly improved through the recent implementation of novel CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drugs, robust and reliable biomarkers are still demanded for the early detection of CF lung disease progression, monitoring treatment efficacy and predicting life-threatening clinical complications. Thus, there is an unmet need to identify and validate novel, ideally blood based biomarkers with strong correlations to the severity of CF lung disease, which represents a major contribution to overall CF morbidity and mortality. In this review, we aim to summarize the utility of thus far studied blood-, sputum- and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)-based biomarkers to evaluate inflammatory conditions in the lung and to follow treatment efficacy in CF. Measurements of sweat chloride concentrations and the spirometric parameter FEV1 are currently utilized to monitor CFTR function and the effect of various CF therapies. Nonetheless, both have inherent pitfalls and limitations, thus routinely analyzed biomarkers in blood, sputum or BAL samples are required as surrogates for lung disorders. Recent discovery of new protein (e.g. HE4) and RNA-based biomarkers, such as microRNAs may offer a higher efficacy, which in aggregate may be valuable to evaluate disease prognosis and to substantiate CF drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Bene
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Fejes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Milan Macek
- Department of Biology and Medical Genetics, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Margarida D Amaral
- University of Lisboa, Faculty of Sciences, BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - István Balogh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary; Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Béla Nagy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.
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A Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) Masking the miR-145-5p Binding Site of the 3'UTR of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator ( CFTR) mRNA Enhances CFTR Expression in Calu-3 Cells. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25071677. [PMID: 32260566 PMCID: PMC7181265 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) have been demonstrated to be very useful tools for gene regulation at different levels and with different mechanisms of action. In the last few years the use of PNAs for targeting microRNAs (anti-miRNA PNAs) has provided impressive advancements. In particular, targeting of microRNAs involved in the repression of the expression of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which is defective in cystic fibrosis (CF), is a key step in the development of new types of treatment protocols. In addition to the anti-miRNA therapeutic strategy, inhibition of miRNA functions can be reached by masking the miRNA binding sites present within the 3′UTR region of the target mRNAs. The objective of this study was to design a PNA masking the binding site of the microRNA miR-145-5p present within the 3′UTR of the CFTR mRNA and to determine its activity in inhibiting miR-145-5p function, with particular focus on the expression of both CFTR mRNA and CFTR protein in Calu-3 cells. The results obtained support the concept that the PNA masking the miR-145-5p binding site of the CFTR mRNA is able to interfere with miR-145-5p biological functions, leading to both an increase of CFTR mRNA and CFTR protein content.
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Ramelli SC, Comer BS, McLendon JM, Sandy LL, Ferretti AP, Barrington R, Sparks J, Matar M, Fewell J, Gerthoffer WT. Nanoparticle Delivery of Anti-inflammatory LNA Oligonucleotides Prevents Airway Inflammation in a HDM Model of Asthma. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 19:1000-1014. [PMID: 32044723 PMCID: PMC7013130 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To address the problem of poor asthma control due to drug resistance, an antisense oligonucleotide complementary to mmu-miR-145a-5p (antimiR-145) was tested in a house dust mite mouse model of mild/moderate asthma. miR-145 was targeted to reduce inflammation, regulate epithelial-mesenchymal transitions, and promote differentiation of structural cells. In addition, several chemical variations of a nontargeting oligonucleotide were tested to define sequence-dependent effects of the miRNA antagonist. After intravenous administration, oligonucleotides complexed with a pegylated cationic lipid nanoparticle distributed to most cells in the lung parenchyma but were not present in smooth muscle or the mucosal epithelium of the upper airways. Treatment with antimiR-145 and a nontargeting oligonucleotide both reduced eosinophilia, reduced obstructive airway remodeling, reduced mucosal metaplasia, and reduced CD68 immunoreactivity. Poly(A) RNA-seq verified that antimiR-145 increased levels of many miR-145 target transcripts. Genes upregulated in human asthma and the mouse model of asthma were downregulated by oligonucleotide treatments. However, both oligonucleotides significantly upregulated many genes of interferon signaling pathways. These results establish effective lung delivery and efficacy of locked nucleic acid/DNA oligonucleotides administered intravenously, and suggest that some of the beneficial effects of oligonucleotide therapy of lung inflammation may be due to normalization of interferon response pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina C Ramelli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Brian S Comer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Jared M McLendon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Lydia L Sandy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Andrew P Ferretti
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Robert Barrington
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Jeff Sparks
- Celsion Corporation, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Majed Matar
- Celsion Corporation, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - Jason Fewell
- Celsion Corporation, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | - William T Gerthoffer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA.
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35
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De Santi C, Fernández Fernández E, Gaul R, Vencken S, Glasgow A, Oglesby IK, Hurley K, Hawkins F, Mitash N, Mu F, Raoof R, Henshall DC, Cutrona MB, Simpson JC, Harvey BJ, Linnane B, McNally P, Cryan SA, MacLoughlin R, Swiatecka-Urban A, Greene CM. Precise Targeting of miRNA Sites Restores CFTR Activity in CF Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Mol Ther 2020; 28:1190-1199. [PMID: 32059764 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs that are overexpressed in cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchial epithelial cells (BEC) negatively regulate CFTR and nullify the beneficial effects of CFTR modulators. We hypothesized that it is possible to reverse microRNA-mediated inhibition of CFTR using CFTR-specific target site blockers (TSBs) and to develop a drug-device combination inhalation therapy for CF. Lead microRNA expression was quantified in a series of human CF and non-CF samples and in vitro models. A panel of CFTR 3' untranslated region (UTR)-specific locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotide TSBs was assessed for their ability to increase CFTR expression. Their effects on CFTR activity alone or in combination with CFTR modulators were measured in CF BEC models. TSB encapsulation in poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles was assessed as a proof of principle of delivery into CF BECs. TSBs targeting the CFTR 3' UTR 298-305:miR-145-5p or 166-173:miR-223-3p sites increased CFTR expression and anion channel activity and enhanced the effects of ivacaftor/lumacaftor or ivacaftor/tezacaftor in CF BECs. Biocompatible PLGA-TSB nanoparticles promoted CFTR expression in primary BECs and retained desirable biophysical characteristics following nebulization. Alone or in combination with CFTR modulators, aerosolized CFTR-targeting TSBs encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles could represent a promising drug-device combination therapy for the treatment for CFTR dysfunction in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | | | - Rachel Gaul
- School of Pharmacy and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Sebastian Vencken
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Arlene Glasgow
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Irene K Oglesby
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Killian Hurley
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Finn Hawkins
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center and Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Nilay Mitash
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Fangping Mu
- Center for Research Computing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Rana Raoof
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - David C Henshall
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Meritxell B Cutrona
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jeremy C Simpson
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Brian J Harvey
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Barry Linnane
- University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Paul McNally
- Department of Pediatrics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland; National Children's Research Centre, Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland
| | - Sally Ann Cryan
- School of Pharmacy and Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | | | | | - Catherine M Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 9, Ireland
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36
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Santi CD, Greene CM. Challenges facing microRNA therapeutics for cystic fibrosis lung disease. Epigenomics 2020; 12:179-181. [DOI: 10.2217/epi-2019-0395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin-A Target for MicroRNA-Based Therapeutic Development for Cystic Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030836. [PMID: 32012925 PMCID: PMC7037267 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder arising from mutations to the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Disruption to normal ion homeostasis in the airway results in impaired mucociliary clearance, leaving the lung more vulnerable to recurrent and chronic bacterial infections. The CF lung endures an excess of neutrophilic inflammation, and whilst neutrophil serine proteases are a crucial part of the innate host defence to infection, a surplus of neutrophil elastase (NE) is understood to create a net destructive effect. Alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) is a key antiprotease in the control of NE protease activity but is ineffective in the CF lung due to the huge imbalance of NE levels. Therapeutic strategies to boost levels of protective antiproteases such as A1AT in the lung remain an attractive research strategy to limit the damage from excess protease activity. microRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that bind specific cognate sequences to inhibit expression of target mRNAs. The inhibition of miRNAs which target the SERPINA1 (A1AT-encoding gene) mRNA represents a novel therapeutic approach for CF inflammation. This could involve the delivery of antagomirs that bind and sequester the target miRNA, or target site blockers that bind miRNA recognition elements within the target mRNA to prevent miRNA interaction. Therefore, miRNA targeted therapies offer an alternative strategy to drive endogenous A1AT production and thus supplement the antiprotease shield of the CF lung.
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Huang Y, Chen CL, Yuan JJ, Li HM, Han XR, Chen RC, Guan WJ, Zhong NS. Sputum Exosomal microRNAs Profiling Reveals Critical Pathways Modulated By Pseudomonas aeruginosa Colonization In Bronchiectasis. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2019; 14:2563-2573. [PMID: 31819394 PMCID: PMC6878997 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s219821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) colonization confers poor prognosis in bronchiectasis. However, the biomarkers and biological pathways underlying these associations are unclear. Objective To identify the roles of PA colonization in bronchiectasis by exploring for sputum exosomal microRNA profiles. Methods We enrolled 98 patients with clinically stable bronchiectasis and 17 healthy subjects. Sputum was split for bacterial culture and exosomal microRNA sequencing, followed by validation with quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Bronchiectasis patients were stratified into PA and non-PA colonization groups based on sputum culture findings. We applied Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome pathway enrichment analysis to explore biological pathways corresponding to the differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) associated with PA colonization. Results Eighty-two bronchiectasis patients and 9 healthy subjects yielded sufficient sputum that passed quality control. We identified 10 overlap DEMs for the comparison between bronchiectasis patients and healthy subjects, and between PA and non-PA colonization group. Both miR-92b-5p and miR-223-3p could discriminate PA colonization (C-statistic >0.60) and independently correlated with PA colonization in multiple linear regression analysis. The differential expression of miR-92b-5p was validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (P<0.05), whereas the differential expression of miR-223 trended towards statistical significance (P=0.06). These DEMs, whose expression levels correlated significantly with sputum inflammatory biomarkers (interleukin-1β and interleukin-8) level, were implicated in the modulation of the nuclear factor-κB, phosphatidylinositol and longevity regulation pathways. Conclusion Sputum exosomal microRNAs are implicated in PA colonization in bronchiectasis, highlighting candidate targets for therapeutic interventions to mitigate the adverse impacts conferred by PA colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-Lan Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Jing Yuan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Min Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Rong Han
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong-Chang Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Jie Guan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan-Shan Zhong
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
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Dutta RK, Chinnapaiyan S, Unwalla H. Aberrant MicroRNAomics in Pulmonary Complications: Implications in Lung Health and Diseases. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 18:413-431. [PMID: 31655261 PMCID: PMC6831837 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the last few decades, evolutionarily conserved molecular networks have emerged as important regulators in the expression and function of eukaryotic genomes. Recently, miRNAs (miRNAs), a large family of small, non-coding regulatory RNAs were identified in these networks as regulators of endogenous genes by exerting post-transcriptional gene regulation activity in a broad range of eukaryotic species. Dysregulation of miRNA expression correlates with aberrant gene expression and can play an essential role in human health and disease. In the context of the lung, miRNAs have been implicated in organogenesis programming, such as proliferation, differentiation, and morphogenesis. Gain- or loss-of-function studies revealed their pivotal roles as regulators of disease development, potential therapeutic candidates/targets, and clinical biomarkers. An altered microRNAome has been attributed to several pulmonary diseases, such as asthma, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Considering the relevant roles and functions of miRNAs under physiological and pathological conditions, they may lead to the invention of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. This review will focus on recent advances in understanding the role of miRNAs in lung development, lung health, and diseases, while also exploring the progress and prospects of their application as therapeutic leads or as biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajib Kumar Dutta
- Department of Immunology and Nano-medicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Srinivasan Chinnapaiyan
- Department of Immunology and Nano-medicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Hoshang Unwalla
- Department of Immunology and Nano-medicine, Institute of Neuroimmune Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
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40
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MicroRNA-29a Mitigates Subacromial Bursa Fibrosis in Rotator Cuff Lesion with Shoulder Stiffness. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225742. [PMID: 31731750 PMCID: PMC6888443 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rotator cuff lesion with shoulder stiffness is a major cause of shoulder pain and motionlessness. Subacromial bursa fibrosis is a prominent pathological feature of the shoulder disorder. MicroRNA-29a (miR-29a) regulates fibrosis in various tissues; however, the miR-29a action to subacromial bursa fibrosis remains elusive. Here, we reveal that subacromial synovium in patients with rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness showed severe fibrosis, hypertrophy, and hyperangiogenesis histopathology along with significant increases in fibrotic matrices collagen (COL) 1A1, 3A1, and 4A1 and inflammatory cytokines, whereas miR-29a expression was downregulated. Supraspinatus and infraspinatus tenotomy-injured shoulders in transgenic mice overexpressing miR-29a showed mild swelling, vascularization, fibrosis, and regular gait profiles as compared to severe rotator cuff damage in wild-type mice. Treatment with miR-29a precursor compromised COL3A1 production and hypervascularization in injured shoulders. In vitro, gain of miR-29a function attenuated COL3A1 expression through binding to the 3’-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of COL3A1 in inflamed tenocytes, whereas silencing miR-29a increased the matrix expression. Taken together, miR-29a loss is correlated with subacromial bursa inflammation and fibrosis in rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness. miR-29a repressed subacromial bursa fibrosis through directly targeting COL3A1 mRNA, improving rotator cuff integrity and shoulder function. Collective analysis offers a new insight into the molecular mechanism underlying rotator cuff tear with shoulder stiffness. This study also highlights the remedial potential of miR-29a precursor for alleviating the shoulder disorder.
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Luly FR, Lévêque M, Licursi V, Cimino G, Martin-Chouly C, Théret N, Negri R, Cavinato L, Ascenzioni F, Del Porto P. MiR-146a is over-expressed and controls IL-6 production in cystic fibrosis macrophages. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16259. [PMID: 31700158 PMCID: PMC6838115 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52770-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that is characterised by susceptibility to bacterial infections and chronic lung inflammation. Recently, it was suggested that macrophages contribute to impaired host defence and excessive inflammatory responses in CF. Indeed, dysfunction attributed to CF macrophages includes decreased bacterial killing and exaggerated inflammatory responses. However, the mechanisms behind such defects have only been partially defined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of several macrophage functions, including their activation, differentiation and polarisation. The goal of this study was to investigate whether miRNA dysregulation underlies the functional abnormalities of CF macrophages. MiRNA profiling of macrophages was performed, with 22 miRNAs identified as differentially expressed between CF and non-CF individuals. Among these, miR-146a was associated with significant enrichment of validated target genes involved in responses to microorganisms and inflammation. As miR-146a dysregulation has been reported in several human inflammatory diseases, we analysed the impact of increased miR-146a expression on inflammatory responses of CF macrophages. These data show that inhibition of miR-146a in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated CF macrophages results in increased interleukin-6 production, which suggests that miR-146a overexpression in CF is functional, to restrict inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco R Luly
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuella Lévêque
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Service de Dermatologie CHU de Poitiers, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Valerio Licursi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Corinne Martin-Chouly
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR S 1085, F-35000 University of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Théret
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR S 1085, F-35000 University of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Rodolfo Negri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Cavinato
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorentina Ascenzioni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Del Porto
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, "C. Darwin" Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
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Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Selectively Recruits microRNAs to the RNA-Induced Silencing Complex and Degrades CFTR mRNA under Permissive Conditions in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194933. [PMID: 31590401 PMCID: PMC6801718 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene lead to cystic fibrosis (CF). The most common mutation F508del inhibits folding and processing of CFTR protein. FDA-approved correctors rescue the biosynthetic processing of F508del-CFTR protein, while potentiators improve the rescued CFTR channel function. Transforming growth factor (TGF-β1), overexpressed in many CF patients, blocks corrector/potentiator rescue by inhibiting CFTR mRNA in vitro. Increased TGF-β1 signaling and acquired CFTR dysfunction are present in other lung diseases. To study the mechanism of TGF-β1 repression of CFTR, we used molecular, biochemical, and functional approaches in primary human bronchial epithelial cells from over 50 donors. TGF-β1 destabilized CFTR mRNA in cells from lungs with chronic disease, including CF, and impaired F508del-CFTR rescue by new-generation correctors. TGF-β1 increased the active pool of selected micro(mi)RNAs validated as CFTR inhibitors, recruiting them to the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Expression of F508del-CFTR globally modulated TGF-β1-induced changes in the miRNA landscape, creating a permissive environment required for degradation of F508del-CFTR mRNA. In conclusion, TGF-β1 may impede the full benefit of corrector/potentiator therapy in CF patients. Studying miRNA recruitment to RISC under disease-specific conditions may help to better characterize the miRNAs utilized by TGF-β1 to destabilize CFTR mRNA.
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Gasparello J, Papi C, Zurlo M, Corradini R, Gambari R, Finotti A. Demonstrating specificity of bioactive peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) targeting microRNAs for practical laboratory classes of applied biochemistry and pharmacology. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221923. [PMID: 31509554 PMCID: PMC6738603 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Practical laboratory classes teaching molecular pharmacology approaches employed in the development of therapeutic strategies are of great interest for students of courses in Biotechnology, Applied Biology, Pharmaceutic and Technology Chemistry, Translational Oncology. Unfortunately, in most cases the technology to be transferred to learning students is complex and requires multi-step approaches. In this respect, simple and straightforward experimental protocols might be of great interest. This study was aimed at presenting a laboratory exercise focusing (a) on a very challenging therapeutic strategy, i.e. microRNA therapeutics, and (b) on the employment of biomolecules of great interest in applied biology and pharmacology, i.e. peptide nucleic acids (PNAs). The aims of the practical laboratory were to determine: (a) the possible PNA-mediated arrest in RT-qPCR, to be eventually used to demonstrate PNA targeting of selected miRNAs; (b) the possible lack of activity on mutated PNA sequences; (c) the effects (if any) on the amplification of other unrelated miRNA sequences. The results which can be obtained support the following conclusions: PNA-mediated arrest in RT-qPCR can be analyzed in a easy way; mutated PNA sequences are completely inactive; the effects of the employed PNAs are specific and no inhibitory effect occurs on other unrelated miRNA sequences. This activity is simple (cell culture, RNA extraction, RT-qPCR are all well-established technologies), fast (starting from isolated and characterized RNA, few hours are just necessary), highly reproducible (therefore easily employed by even untrained students). On the other hand, these laboratory lessons require some facilities, the most critical being the availability of instruments for PCR. While this might be a problem in the case these instruments are not available, we would like to underline that determination of the presence or of a lack of amplified product can be also obtained using standard analytical approaches based on agarose gel electrophoresis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Papi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Zurlo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Corradini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnology (CIB), Trieste, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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44
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Lutful Kabir F, Harris WT. Reply to Finotti et al.: Enhancing the Expression of CFTR Using Antisense Molecules against MicroRNA miR-145-5p. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2019; 199:1444-1445. [PMID: 30811947 PMCID: PMC6543726 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201901-0204le] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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45
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Finotti A, Fabbri E, Lampronti I, Gasparello J, Borgatti M, Gambari R. MicroRNAs and Long Non-coding RNAs in Genetic Diseases. Mol Diagn Ther 2019; 23:155-171. [PMID: 30610665 PMCID: PMC6469593 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery and classification of non-coding RNAs, their roles have gained great attention. In this respect, microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs have been firmly demonstrated to be linked to regulation of gene expression and onset of human diseases, including rare genetic diseases; therefore they are suitable targets for therapeutic intervention. This issue, in the context of rare genetic diseases, is being considered by an increasing number of research groups and is of key interest to the health community. In the case of rare genetic diseases, the possibility of developing personalized therapy in precision medicine has attracted the attention of researchers and clinicians involved in developing "orphan medicinal products" and proposing these to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Office of Orphan Products Development (OOPD) in the United States. The major focuses of these activities are the evaluation and development of products (drugs, biologics, devices, or medical foods) considered to be promising for diagnosis and/or treatment of rare diseases or conditions, including rare genetic diseases. In an increasing number of rare genetic diseases, analysis of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs has been proven a promising strategy. These diseases include, but are not limited to, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, Rett syndrome, and β-thalassemia. In conclusion, a large number of approaches based on targeting microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs are expected in the field of molecular diagnosis and therapy, with a facilitated technological transfer in the case of rare genetic diseases, in virtue of the existing regulation concerning these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrica Fabbri
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Borgatti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara n.74, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Abstract
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting more than 70,000 people worldwide. Caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, cystic fibrosis can result in difficulty breathing, widespread bacterial infections, edema, malnutrition, pancreatitis, and death. Current drug-based treatments struggle to reach the site of action due to the thick mucus, and only manage symptoms such as blocked airways, lung infections, and limited ability to digest food. Nanotechnology opens up possibilities for improved treatment strategies by focusing on drug penetration through the mucus lining, eliminating resulting bacterial infections, and targeting the underlying genetic cause of the disease. In this review, we present recent nanoparticle developments for cystic fibrosis, challenges in nanomedicine therapeutics, and future research directions in gene editing and nonviral vectors for gene delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Ong
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vincent Mei
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lin Cao
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kiana Lee
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eun Ji Chung
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 2 Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 3 Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 4 Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Repair, Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 5 Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- 6 Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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47
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Stolzenburg LR, Harris A. The role of microRNAs in chronic respiratory disease: recent insights. Biol Chem 2018; 399:219-234. [PMID: 29148977 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2017-0249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Chronic respiratory diseases encompass a group of diverse conditions affecting the airways, which all impair lung function over time. They include cystic fibrosis (CF), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, which together affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs involved in post-transcriptional gene repression, are now recognized as major regulators in the development and progression of chronic lung disease. Alterations in miRNA abundance occur in lung tissue, inflammatory cells, and freely circulating in blood and are thought to function both as drivers and modifiers of disease. Their importance in lung pathology has prompted the development of miRNA-based therapies and biomarker tools. Here, we review the current literature on miRNA expression and function in chronic respiratory disease and highlight further research that is needed to propel miRNA treatments for lung disorders towards the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay R Stolzenburg
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ann Harris
- Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44016, USA
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48
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Bardin P, Sonneville F, Corvol H, Tabary O. Emerging microRNA Therapeutic Approaches for Cystic Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1113. [PMID: 30349480 PMCID: PMC6186820 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and remains the most common life-shortening diseases affecting the exocrine organs. The absence of this channel results in an imbalance of ion concentrations across the cell membrane and results in more abnormal secretion and mucus plugging in the gastrointestinal tract and in the lungs of CF patients. The direct introduction of fully functional CFTR by gene therapy has long been pursued as a therapeutical option to restore CFTR function independent of the specific CFTR mutation, but the different clinical trials failed to propose persuasive evidence of this strategy. The last ten years has led to the development of new pharmacotherapies which can activate CFTR function in a mutation-specific manner. Although approximately 2,000 different disease-associated mutations have been identified, a single codon deletion, F508del, is by far the most common and is present on at least one allele in approximately 70% of the patients in CF populations. This strategy is limited by chemistry, the knowledge on CFTR and the heterogenicity of the patients. New research efforts in CF aim to develop other therapeutical approaches to combine different strategies. Targeting RNA appears as a new and an important opportunity to modulate dysregulated biological processes. Abnormal miRNA activity has been linked to numerous diseases, and over the last decade, the critical role of miRNA in regulating biological processes has fostered interest in how miRNA binds to and interacts explicitly with the target protein. Herein, this review describes the different strategies to identify dysregulated miRNA opens up a new concept and new opportunities to correct CFTR deficiency. This review describes therapeutic applications of antisense techniques currently under investigation in CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Bardin
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Florence Sonneville
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Harriet Corvol
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,Paediatric Respiratory Department, Hôpital Trousseau, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Tabary
- INSERM UMR-S938, Centre de Recherche Saint Antoine, Faculté des Sciences, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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Burgy O, Fernandez Fernandez E, Rolandsson Enes S, Königshoff M, Greene CM, Bartel S. New players in chronic lung disease identified at the European Respiratory Society International Congress in Paris 2018: from microRNAs to extracellular vesicles. J Thorac Dis 2018; 10:S2983-S2987. [PMID: 30310685 PMCID: PMC6174131 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2018.08.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Burgy
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Elena Fernandez Fernandez
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sara Rolandsson Enes
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lung Biology Unit, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Melanie Königshoff
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sabine Bartel
- Early Life Origins of Chronic Lung Disease, Leibniz Lung Center Borstel, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany
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50
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Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are an abundant class of RNAs that include small ncRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) and pseudogenes. The human ncRNA atlas includes thousands of these specialised RNA molecules that are further subcategorised based on their size or function. Two of the more well-known and widely studied ncRNA species are microRNAs (miRNAs) and lncRNAs. These are regulatory RNAs and their altered expression has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Failure to express a functional cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane receptor (CFTR) chloride ion channel in epithelial cells underpins CF. Secondary to the CFTR defect, it is known that other pathways can be altered and these may contribute to the pathophysiology of CF lung disease in particular. For example, quantitative alterations in expression of some ncRNAs are associated with CF. In recent years, there has been a series of published studies exploring ncRNA expression and function in CF. The majority have focussed principally on miRNAs, with just a handful of reports to date on lncRNAs. The present study reviews what is currently known about ncRNA expression and function in CF, and discusses the possibility of applying this knowledge to the clinical management of CF in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlene M.A. Glasgow
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Chiara De Santi
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Lung Biology Group, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
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