miR-148a promoted cell proliferation by targeting p27 in gastric cancer cells

Anti-miRNA therapeutics for uterine fibroids

BACKGROUND

Uterine leiomyomas arise from altered uterine smooth muscle cell proliferation in the myometrium. Available treatments are limited and fraught with major side effects. Here, we leveraged data from a high-throughput screening using human microRNA mimics and selected miR-148a-3p as a therapeutic target. The study aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of a miR-148a-3p inhibitor in suppressing the proliferation of uterine leiomyoma cells and in a xenograft mouse model.

METHODS

Clinical samples of uterine leiomyoma were used to isolate primary uterine leiomyoma cells and develop a subcutaneous xenograft mouse model. Cells were transfected with both miR-148a-3p mimic and anti-miR-148a-3p to assess the effect of miR-148a-3p on-cell proliferation. Animals were administered anti-miR-148a-3p-LNA via both local (intra-tumoral) and systemic (intraperitoneal) routes. Tumor volume was measured using ultrasonography, followed by histological and immunofluorescence staining, and target gene expression analysis.

RESULTS

Transfection of primary cells with miR-148a-3p mimic resulted in increased smooth-muscle cell proliferation, whereas anti-miR-148a-3p LNA reduced their proliferation. Both local and systemic delivery of anti-miR-148a-3p LNA reduced tumor volume and cell proliferation. Anti-miR-148a-3p LNA also led to reduced levels of miR-148a-3p in vivo, paralleled by the up-regulation of its target genes TXNIP and Nrp1.

CONCLUSION

Anti-miR-148a-3p LNA inhibits the proliferation of patient-derived leiomyoma cells and tumor growth in vivo, by suppressing miR-148a-3p levels and increasing TXNIP and Nrp1 gene expression. The highest therapeutic effect was observed with systemic administration, positioning miR-148a-3p inhibition as a promising therapeutic strategy for uterine leiomyoma in humans.

Gene Variants in Components of the microRNA Processing Pathway in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Current therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) has improved patient life expectancy close to that of healthy individuals. However, molecular alterations other than BCR::ABL1 fusion gene in CML are barely known. MicroRNAs are important regulators of gene expression, and variants in some of the components of microRNA biosynthesis pathways have been associated with genetic susceptibility to different types of cancer. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the association of variants located in genes involved in the biogenesis of microRNAs with susceptibility to CML. Fifteen variants in eight genes involved in the biogenesis of miRNAs were genotyped in 296 individuals with CML and 485 healthy participants using TaqMan probes. The association of gene variants with CML and clinical variables was evaluated by a Chi-square test, and odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated by logistic regression. The variant rs13078 in DICER1 was significantly higher among CML individuals than in healthy participants. In addition, the variants rs7813 and rs2740349 were significantly associated with worse prognosis, according to their Hasford scores, whereas the rs2740349 variant was also associated with a later age at diagnosis. These findings suggest that variants in components of the microRNA biogenesis pathway could be involved in CML genetic risk.

MicroRNA-148a Targets DNMT1 and PPARGC1A to Regulate the Viability, Proliferation, and Milk Fat Synthesis of Ovine Mammary Epithelial Cells

In this study, the expression profiles of miR-148a were constructed in eight different ovine tissues, including mammary gland tissue, during six different developmental periods. The effect of miR-148a on the viability, proliferation, and milk fat synthesis of ovine mammary epithelial cells (OMECs) was investigated, and the target relationship of miR-148a with two predicted target genes was verified. The expression of miR-148a exhibited obvious tissue-specific and temporal-specific patterns. miR-148a was expressed in all eight ovine tissues investigated, with the highest expression level in mammary gland tissue (p < 0.05). Additionally, miR-148a was expressed in ovine mammary gland tissue during each of the six developmental periods studied, with its highest level at peak lactation (p < 0.05). The overexpression of miR-148a increased the viability of OMECs, the number and percentage of Edu-labeled positive OMECs, and the expression levels of two cell-proliferation marker genes. miR-148a also increased the percentage of OMECs in the S phase. In contrast, transfection with an miR-148a inhibitor produced the opposite effect compared to the miR-148a mimic. These results indicate that miR-148a promotes the viability and proliferation of OMECs in Small-tailed Han sheep. The miR-148a mimic increased the triglyceride content by 37.78% (p < 0.01) and the expression levels of three milk fat synthesis marker genes in OMECs. However, the miR-148a inhibitor reduced the triglyceride level by 87.11% (p < 0.01). These results suggest that miR-148a promotes milk fat synthesis in OMECs. The dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-148a reduced the luciferase activities of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-A (PPARGC1A) in wild-type vectors, suggesting that they are target genes of miR-148a. The expression of miR-148a was highly negatively correlated with PPARGC1A (r = -0.789, p < 0.001) in ovine mammary gland tissue, while it had a moderate negative correlation with DNMT1 (r = -0.515, p = 0.029). This is the first study to reveal the molecular mechanisms of miR-148a underlying the viability, proliferation, and milk fat synthesis of OMECs in sheep.

Role of non-coding RNAs as new therapeutic targets in regulating the EMT and apoptosis in metastatic gastric and colorectal cancers

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and gastric cancer (GC), are the two most common cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, and are serious health concerns worldwide. The discovery of more effective biomarkers for early diagnosis, and improved patient prognosis is important. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), can regulate cellular processes such as apoptosis and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) leading to progression and resistance of GC and CRC tumors. Moreover these pathways (apoptosis and EMT) may serve as therapeutic targets, to prevent metastasis, and to overcome drug resistance. A subgroup of ncRNAs is common to both GC and CRC tumors, suggesting that they might be used as biomarkers or therapeutic targets. In this review, we highlight some ncRNAs that can regulate EMT and apoptosis as two opposite mechanisms in cancer progression and metastasis in GC and CRC. A better understanding of the biological role of ncRNAs could open up new avenues for the development of personalized treatment plans for GC and CRC patients.

Identification of memory B-cell-associated miRNA signature to establish a prognostic model in gastric adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Memory B cells and microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the progression of gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC), also known as stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD). However, few studies have investigated the use of memory B-cell-associated miRNAs in predicting the prognosis of STAD.

METHODS

We identified the marker genes of memory B cells by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and identified the miRNAs associated with memory B cells by constructing an mRNA‒miRNA coexpression network. Then, univariate Cox, random survival forest (RSF), and stepwise multiple Cox regression (StepCox) algorithms were used to identify memory B-cell-associated miRNAs that were significantly related to overall survival (OS). A prognostic risk model was constructed and validated using these miRNAs, and patients were divided into a low-risk group and a high-risk group. In addition, the differences in clinicopathological features, tumour microenvironment, immune blocking therapy, and sensitivity to anticancer drugs in the two groups were analysed.

RESULTS

Four memory B-cell-associated miRNAs (hsa-mir-145, hsa-mir-125b-2, hsa-mir-100, hsa-mir-221) with significant correlations to OS were identified and used to construct a prognostic model. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed the feasibility of the model. Kaplan‒Meier (K‒M) survival curve analysis showed that the prognosis was poor in the high-risk group. Comprehensive analysis showed that patients in the high-risk group had higher immune scores, matrix scores, and immune cell infiltration and a poor immune response. In terms of drug screening, we predicted eight drugs with higher sensitivity in the high-risk group, of which CGP-60474 was associated with the greatest sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we identified memory B-cell-associated miRNA prognostic features and constructed a novel risk model for STAD based on scRNA-seq data and bulk RNA-seq data. Among patients in the high-risk group, STAD showed the highest sensitivity to CGP-60474. This study provides prognostic insights into individualized and precise treatment for STAD patients.

Exosome-derived Small RNAs in mouse Sertoli cells inhibit spermatogonial apoptosis

Spermatogenesis is a highly complicated biological process that occurs in the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules. It is regulated by a complex network of endocrine and paracrine factors. Sertoli cells (SCs) play a key role in spermatogenesis due to their production of trophic, differentiation, and immune-modulating factors. However, many of the molecular pathways of SC action remain controversial and unclear. Recently, many studies have focused on exosomes as an important mechanism of intercellular communication. We found that the exosomes derived from mouse SCs inhibited the apoptosis of primary spermatogonia. A total of 1016 miRNAs in SCs and 556 miRNAs in exosomes were detected using miRNA high-throughput sequencing. A total of 294 miRNAs were differentially expressed between SCs and exosomes. Furthermore, 19 tsRNA families appeared in SCs, while 6 tsRNA families appeared in exosomes. A total of 57 and 1 miRNAs (RPM >4) and 14 and 1 tsRNAs were exclusively expressed in SCs and exosomes, respectively. MiR-10b is one of the top ten exosomes with a relatively large enrichment of miRNA. Overexpression of miR-10b downregulates the expression of the target KLF4 to reduce spermatogonial apoptosis in primary spermatogonia or the C18-4 cell line.

CEACAM5 targeted by miR-498 promotes cell proliferation, migration and epithelial to mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer

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CEACAM5 was upregulated in GC tissues and cells.

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CEACAM5 knockdown repressed GC cell migration, proliferation, and EMT.

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Knockdown of CEACAM5 suppressed the growth of GC cells in mice with transplanted tumor.

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CEACAM5 was predicted as a miR-498 target.

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MiR-498 reduced GC cell migration, proliferation, and EMT by inhibiting CEACAM5.

Objective

Recent studies have shown that carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 5 (CEACAM5) may serve as an independent predictor of advanced gastric cancer (GC). The purpose of this research is to explore the patterns of expression, functions, and upstream regulatory pathway of CEACAM5 in GC.

Methods

The levels of miR-498 and CEACAM5 expression in GC cells and tissues were measured via qRT-PCR. Wound-healing, CCK-8, and western blotting experiments were conducted for the evaluation of GC cell migration, proliferation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), respectively. The targeting relationship between miR-498 and CEACAM5 was validated via pull-down and luciferase reporter assays. Xenograft tumor mouse models were established to observe CEACAM5’s influence on the growth of tumors in vivo.

Results

Elevated levels of CEACAM5 were detected among the GC cells and tissues. The results of the in vitro experiments revealed that the knockdown of CEACAM5 in GC cells significantly inhibited their proliferation, migration, and EMT. Moreover, CEACAM5 inhibition effectively hampered GC cell growth within the nude mice. Moreover, miR-498 directly targeted CEACAM5. MiR-498 downregulation had been observed among the cells and tissues of GC. The stimulation of GC cell proliferation, migration, and EMT, which had been engendered by CEACAM5 overexpression, was reversible through the overexpression of miR-498.

Conclusion

The outcomes of this research suggest that miR-498 is capable of repressing the proliferation, migration, and EMT of GC cells through CEACAM5 downregulation.

miR-148a, miR-152 and miR-200b promote prostate cancer metastasis by targeting DNMT1 and PTEN expression

MicroRNAs (miRs) modulate the expression of target genes in the signal pathway on transcriptome level. The present study investigated the ‘epigenetic-based miRNA (epi-miRNA)-mRNA’ regulatory network of miR-34b, miR-34c, miR-148a, miR-152, miR-200a and miR-200b epi-miRNAs and their target genes, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT1, 3a and 3b), phosphate and tensin homolog (PTEN) and NK3 Homeobox 1 (NKX3.1), in prostate cancer (PCa) using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The expression level of NKX3.1 were not significantly different between the PCa, Met-PCa and control groups. However, in the PCa and Met-PCa groups, the expression level of DNMT1 was upregulated, while DNMT3a, DNMT3b and PTEN were downregulated. Overexpression of DNMT1 (~5 and ~6-fold increase in the PCa and Met-PCa groups respectively) was accompanied by a decreased expression in PTEN, indicating a potential negative association. Both groups indicated that a high level of DNMT1 is associated with the aggressiveness of cancer, and there is a a directly proportional relationship between this gene and PSA, GS and TNM staging. A significant ~2 to ~5-fold decrease in the expression levels of DNMT3a and DNMT3b was found in both groups. In the PCa group, significant associations were identified between miR-34b and DNMT1/DNMT3b; between miR-34c/miR-148a and all target genes; between miR-152 and DNMT1/DNMT3b and PTEN; and between miR-200a/b and DNMT1. In the Met-PCa group, miR-148a, miR-152 and miR-200b exhibited a significant association with all target genes. A significant negative association was identified between PTEN and DNMT1 in the Met-PCa group. It was also revealed that that miR-148a, miR-152 and miR-200b increased the expression of DNMT1 and suppressed PTEN. Furthermore, the ‘epi-miRNA-mRNA’ bidirectional feedback loop was emphasised and the methylation pattern in PCa anti-cancer therapeutics was highlighted.

Subanesthetic ketamine rapidly alters medial prefrontal miRNAs involved in ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic and a non-competitive NMDAR antagonist. At subanesthetic dose, ketamine can relieve pain and work as a fast-acting antidepressant, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate the mode of action underlying the effects of acute subanesthetic ketamine treatment by bioinformatics analyses of miRNAs in the medial prefrontal cortex of male C57BL/6J mice. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analyses of the genes putatively targeted by ketamine-responsive prefrontal miRNAs revealed that acute subanesthetic ketamine modifies ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis. Validation analysis suggested that miR-148a-3p and miR-128-3p are the main players responsible for the subanesthetic ketamine-mediated alteration of ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis through varied regulation of ubiquitin ligases E2 and E3. Collectively, our data imply that the prefrontal miRNA-dependent modulation of ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis is at least partially involved in the mode of action by acute subanesthetic ketamine treatment.

Global investigation of estrogen-responsive genes regulating lipid metabolism in the liver of laying hens

BACKGROUND

Estrogen plays an essential role in female development and reproductive function. In chickens, estrogen is critical for lipid metabolism in the liver. The regulatory molecular network of estrogen in chicken liver is poorly understood. To identify estrogen-responsive genes and estrogen functional sites on a genome-wide scale, we determined expression profiles of mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs in estrogen-treated ((17β-estradiol)) and control chicken livers using RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) and studied the estrogen receptor α binding sites by ChIP-Sequencing (ChIP-Seq).

RESULTS

We identified a total of 990 estrogen-responsive genes, including 962 protein-coding genes, 11 miRNAs, and 17 lncRNAs. Functional enrichment analyses showed that the estrogen-responsive genes were highly enriched in lipid metabolism and biological processes. Integrated analysis of the data of RNA-Seq and ChIP-Seq, identified 191 genes directly targeted by estrogen, including 185 protein-coding genes, 4 miRNAs, and 2 lncRNAs. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that estrogen decreased the mRNA expression of PPARGC1B, which had been reported to be linked with lipid metabolism, by directly increasing the expression of miR-144-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

These results increase our understanding of the functional network of estrogen in chicken liver and also reveal aspects of the molecular mechanism of estrogen-related lipid metabolism.

Hypoxia-Induced miR-148a Downregulation Contributes to Poor Survival in Colorectal Cancer

Hypoxia is an extensively investigated condition due to its contribution to various pathophysiological processes including cancer progression and metastasis formation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are well-known post-transcriptional gene expression regulators. However, their contribution to molecular response to hypoxia is highly dependent on cell/tissue types and causes of hypoxia. One of the most important examples is colorectal cancer, where no consensus on hypoxia-regulated miRNAs has been reached so far. In this work, we applied integrated mRNA and small RNA sequencing, followed by bioinformatics analysis, to study the landscape of hypoxia-induced miRNA and mRNA expression alterations in human colorectal cancer cell lines (HT-29 and Caco-2). A hypoxic microenvironment was chemically modeled using two different treatments: cobalt(II) chloride and oxyquinoline. Only one miRNA, hsa-miR-210-3p, was upregulated in all experimental conditions, while there were nine differentially expressed miRNAs under both treatments within the same cell line. Further bioinformatics analysis revealed a complex hypoxia-induced regulatory network: hypoxic downregulation of hsa-miR-148a-3p led to the upregulation of its two target genes, ITGA5 and PRNP, which was shown to be a factor contributing to tumor progression and poor survival in colorectal cancer patients.

Non-coding RNAs underlying chemoresistance in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is a major health issue in the Western world. Current clinical imperatives for this disease include the identification of more effective biomarkers to detect GC at early stages and enhance the prevention and treatment of metastatic and chemoresistant GC. The advent of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), particularly microRNAs (miRNAs) and long-non coding RNAs (lncRNAs), has led to a better understanding of the mechanisms by which GC cells acquire features of therapy resistance. ncRNAs play critical roles in normal physiology, but their dysregulation has been detected in a variety of cancers, including GC. A subset of ncRNAs is GC-specific, implying their potential application as biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets. Hence, evaluating the specific functions of ncRNAs will help to expand novel treatment options for GC.

CONCLUSIONS

In this review, we summarize some of the well-known ncRNAs that play a role in the development and progression of GC. We also review the application of such ncRNAs in clinical diagnostics and trials as potential biomarkers. Obviously, a deeper understanding of the biology and function of ncRNAs underlying chemoresistance can broaden horizons toward the development of personalized therapy against GC.

Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Inter-Organism, Cross-Species Communication and Drug Delivery

Milk is considered as more than a source of nutrition for infants and is a vector involved in the transfer of bioactive compounds and cells. Milk contains abundant quantities of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that may originate from multiple cellular sources. These nanosized vesicles have been well characterized and are known to carry a diverse cargo of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and other biomolecules. Milk-derived EVs have been demonstrated to survive harsh and degrading conditions in gut, taken up by various cell types, cross biological barriers and reach peripheral tissues. The cargo carried by these dietary EVs has been suggested to have a role in cell growth, development, immune modulation and regulation. Hence, there is considerable interest in understanding the role of milk-derived EVs in mediating inter-organismal and cross-species communication. Furthermore, various attributes such as it being a natural source, as well as its abundance, scalability, economic viability and lack of unwarranted immunologic reactions, has generated significant interest in deploying milk-derived EVs for clinical applications such as drug delivery and disease therapy. In this review, the role of milk-derived EVs in inter-organismal, cross-species communication and in drug delivery is discussed.

miR-148a-3p regulates proliferation and apoptosis of bovine muscle cells by targeting KLF6

Skeletal muscle development is regulated by a series of regulatory factors, and also including noncoding RNA, especially microRNAs (miRNAs). Recently, miR-148a has been found to be involved in murine C2C12 differentiation by targeting ROCK1. However, the function of miR-148a-3p for the proliferation and apoptosis of bovine muscle cells has not been determined. In this study, we found that miR-148a-3p was highly expressed in fetal bovine skeletal muscle and exhibited a decreasing trend in muscle cells during its growth phase. Functional studies indicated that gain of miR-148a-3p inhibited the proliferation of bovine muscle cells and promoted apoptosis. Conversely, interference with miR-148a-3p inhibitor promoted muscle cell proliferation and inhibited its apoptosis. Mechanistically, KLF6 was confirmed as a new potential target gene of miR-148a-3p by TargetScan software prediction and the dual-luciferase assay verification. Additionally, after a gain or loss of KLF6, the function of KLF6 for muscle cell proliferation and apoptosis was opposite to that of miR-148a-3p. Collectively, these findings proposed a novel avenue whereby miR-148a-3p impeded bovine myoblast cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis through the posttranscriptional downregulation of KLF6.

CDKN1B Val 109 Gly variant is not related to risk of prostate cancer

Association between CDKN1B gene Val 109 Gly polymorphism and prostate cancer (PCa) susceptibility has been investigated in several studies but with inconsistent conclusions. We adopted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the correlation between CDKN1B Val 109 Gly variant and PCa susceptibility. Moreover, we used in-silico tools to evaluate the relationship of CDKN1B expression and overall survival (OS) or disease free survival (DFS) time in PCa patients. The overall results demonstrated no association of the CDKN1B variant on PCa risk [allelic contrast (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.45 - 1.35, P_{heterogeneity}  = 0.038); GV vs VV (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.56 - 1.25, P_{heterogeneity}  = 0.253); GG vs VV (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.23 - 1.01, P_{heterogeneity}  = 0.161); GG+GV vs VV (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.52 -1.08, P_{heterogeneity}  = 0.132) and GG vs GV+VV (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.25 - 1.11, P_{heterogeneity}  = 0.152)]. In subgroup analysis by ethnicity and source of control, we also identified similar results. In-silico results showed that expression of CDKN1B was decreased in PCa tissue, especially in less advanced PCa (Gleason score = 6 or 7). No significant difference of OS or DFS time was indicated between the low and high expression of CDKN1B. Our present study showed evidence that CDKN1B Val 109 Gly variant is not related to PCa risk. Future studies with large sample size are needed to confirm this correlation in more details.

Epigenetic Field Cancerization in Gastric Cancer: microRNAs as Promising Biomarkers

Background: The biological role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in field cancerization is unknown. To investigate the involvement of miRNAs in gastric field cancerization, we evaluated the expression profile of ten miRNAs and their diagnostic value.

Methods: We used three groups of FFPE gastric samples: non-cancer (NC), cancer adjacent (ADJ) and gastric cancer (GC). The expression profiles of hsa-miR-10a, -miR-21, -miR-29c, -miR-135b, -miR-148a, -miR-150, -miR-204, -miR-215, -miR-483 and -miR-664a were investigated using qRT-PCR. The results obtained by qRT-PCR were validated in Small RNA-Seq data from the TCGA database. The search for target genes of the studied miRNAs was performed in the miRTarBase public database and miRTargetLink tool, using experimentally validated interactions. In addition, we also performed the functional analysis of these genes using enrichment in KEGG pathways. The potential as biomarker was evaluated using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the derived area under the curve (AUC>0.85) analysis.

Results: The miRNAs hsa-miR-10a, -miR-21, -miR-135b, hsa-miR-148a, -miR-150, -miR-215, -miR-204, -miR-483 and -miR-664a were up-regulated in ADJ and GC compared to NC (P<0.03); and hsa-miR-21 and -miR-135b were up-regulated in GC compared to ADJ (P<0.01). Hsa-miR-148a, -miR-150, -miR-215, -miR-483 and -miR-664a were not differentially expressed between GC and ADJ, suggesting that both share similar changes (P>0.1). The TS-miR hsa-miR-29c was up-regulated in ADJ compared to NC and GC (P<0.01); we did not observe a significant difference in the expression of this miRNA between NC and GC. This feature may be an antitumor mechanism used by cancer-adjacent tissue because this miRNA regulates the BCL-2, CDC42 and DMNT3A oncogenes. The expression level of hsa-miR-204 was associated with Helicobacter pylori infection status (P<0.05). Functional analysis using the genes regulated by the studied miRNAs showed that they are involved in biological pathways and cellular processes that are critical for the establishment of H. pylori infection and for the onset, development and progression of GC. hsa-miR-10a, -miR-21, -miR-135b, -miR-148a, -miR-150, -miR-215, -miR-483 and -miR-664a were able to discriminate NC from other tissues with great accuracy (AUC>0.85).

Conclusion: The studied miRNAs are closely related to field cancerization, regulate genes important for gastric carcinogenesis and can be potentially useful as biomarkers in GC.

Reprogramming of CaCo2 colorectal cancer cells after using the complex of poly-(N-vinylpyrrolidone) with small non-coding RNAs

Small non-coding RNAs control normal development and differentiation in the embryo. These regulatory molecules play a key role in the development of human diseases and are used often today for researching new treatments for different pathologies. In this study, CaCo2 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells were initially epigenetically reprogrammed and transformed into CD4+ cells with nano-sized complexes of amphiphilic poly-(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) with miRNA-152 and piRNA-30074. The transformation of cells was confirmed by morphological and genetic changes in the dynamic of reprogramming. CD4+ lymphocytes marker was detected using immunofluorescence. Amphiphilic poly-(N-vinylpyrrolidone)/small non-coding RNAs complexes were investigated for transfection efficiency and duration of transfection of CaCo2 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells using fluorescence.

Long non-coding RNA CCAT1/miR-148a/PKCζ prevents cell migration of prostate cancer by altering macrophage polarization

BACKGROUND

Macrophage polarization plays an important role in tumor microenvironment, which regulated the prognosis of prostate cancer. However, the potential role of it is still need further identification.

METHODS

The M1 Macrophages were inducted using 100 ng/mL LPS and 100 ng/mL IFN-γ, the M1 Macrophages were inducted using 20 ng/mL IL-4. TAMs were obtained by culturing monocytes for 7 days in RPMI 1640 10% FBS with 50% of conditioned medium from PC-3 cells real-time PCR was performed to determine the expression of miR-148a, CCAT1, and PKCζ. Western blot was used to measure the level of PKCζ. The cytokine IL-10 was determined using ELISA. Transwell chamber was carried out to determine cell migration. Luciferase reporter assay was used to determine the relationship between miR-148a and PKCζ.

RESULTS

The expression of miR-148a was highest in TAMs, while CCAT1 and PKCζ were highest in M1 Macrophages. Overexpressed miR-148a promoted the level of IL-10 and cell migration. Down-regulated CCAT1 promoted the level of IL-10 and cell migration, while this effects were abolished by co-transfection of si-CCAT1 and miR-148a inhibitor. PKCζ is the target gene of miR-148a. The effects of overexpressed miR-148a on the level of IL-10, genes expression, and cell migration were abolished by miR-148a mimic and pcDNA-PKCζ. In vivo experiments verified the effects of CCAT1 and miR-148a on tumor growth.

CONCLUSION

CCAT1 knockdown promoted M2 macrophages polarization by up-regulating miR-148a, while miR-148a up-regulation promoted M2 macrophages polarization by down-regulating the expression of PKCζ.

Characterization of miRNA profiles in the mammary tissue of dairy cattle in response to heat stress

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs that play important roles in the regulation of gene expression. However, the role of miRNAs in bovine mammary gland responses to heat stress is not well understood.

Results

In the present study, we performed a deep RNA sequencing analysis to identify miRNAs associated with the heat stress potential of the bovine mammary gland. We identified 27 miRNAs that were differentially expressed significantly between the mammary tissue of Holstein cattle heat stress and normal conditions. Twenty miRNAs had higher expression in the mammary tissue of heat-stressed Holstein cattle. The seven highest differentially expressed candidate miRNAs (bta-miR-21-5p, bta-miR-99a-5p, bta-miR-146b, bta-miR-145, bta-miR-2285 t, bta-miR-133a, and bta-miR-29c) identified by deep RNA sequencing were additionally evaluated by stem-loop qPCR. Enrichment analyses for targeted genes revealed that the major differences between miRNAs expression in the mammary gland of heat-stressed versus control were associated with the regulation of Wnt, TGF-β, MAPK, Notch, and JAK-STAT.

Conclusions

These data indicated that the differentially expressed miRNAs identified in this study may act as dominant regulators during heat stress. We might reduce heat stress damage of Holstein cows by up-regulating or down-regulating these differentially expressed miRNAs.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-5298-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Complex role of miR-130a-3p and miR-148a-3p balance on drug resistance and tumor biology in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

miRNAs play a crucial role in cancer development and progression. However, results on the impact of miRNAs on drug sensitivity and tumor biology vary, and most studies to date focussed on either increasing or decreasing miRNA expression levels. Therefore, the current study investigated the role of different expression levels of miR-130a-3p and miR-148a-3p on drug resistance and tumor biology in four esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. Interestingly, up- and downregulation of both miRNAs significantly increased sensitivity towards chemotherapy. MiRNA modulation also reduced adherence and migration potential, and increased apoptosis rates. Target analyses showed that up- and downregulation of both miRNAs activated the apoptotic p53-pathway via increased expression of either BAX (miR-148a-3p) or Caspase 9 (miR-130a-3p). miR-148a-3p downregulation seemed to mediate its effects primarily via regulation of Bim rather than Bcl-2 levels, whereas we found the opposite scenario following miR-148a-3p upregulation. A similar effect was observed for miR-130a-3p regulating Bcl-2 and XIAP. Our data provide the first evidence that miRNA modulation in both directions may lead to similar effects on chemotherapy response and tumor biology in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Most interestingly, up- and downregulation seem to mediate their effects via modulating the balance of several validated or predicted targets.

Down-regulation of lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS2 contributes to gastric cancer development via activation of PI3K/Akt pathway

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the role and regulatory mechanism of lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS2 in the development of gastric cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS2 in gastric cancer tissues and cells was detected. According to the expression level of ADAMTS9-AS2, survival analysis for patients with gastric cancer was performed. In addition, SGC-7901 cells were transfected with pc-ADAMTS9-AS2, si-ADAMTS9-AS2 and scramble RNA (control) to investigate the effects of ADAMTS9-AS2 on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Besides, the expression levels of key molecules involved in PI3K/Akt pathway were detected.

RESULTS

Results showed that lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS2 was significantly down-regulated in gastric cancer tissues and cells. Decreased expression of lncRNA ADAMTS9-AS2 was associated with poor prognosis in patients with gastric cancer. In comparison with control group, the SGC-7901 cell viability and the number of colony, migrated or invaded SGC-7901 cells of pc-ADAMTS9-AS2 group were significantly decreased while markedly increased in si-ADAMTS9-AS2 group. The percentage of apoptotic SGC-7901 cells in pc-ADAMTS9-AS2 group was significantly increased, while significantly decreased in si-ADAMTS9-AS2 group. Additionally, the expressions of p-PI3K and p-Akt were significantly down-regulated in pc-ADAMTS9-AS2 group compared with control group, while up-regulated in si-ADAMTS9-AS2 group. Furthermore, compared with si-ADAMTS9-AS2 group, treatment of an PI3K inhibitor LY294002 markedly reversed the effects of suppression of ADAMTS9-AS2 alone on SGC-7901 cells by inhibiting cell viability, colony-forming ability, migration, invasion, and increasing apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that overexpression of ADAMTS9-AS2 may inhibit gastric cancer cell proliferation, suppress cancer cell migration and invasion, and induce cell apoptosis. Activation of PI3K/Akt pathway may be a key regulatory mechanism of ADAMTS9-AS2 in gastric cancer.

Multiple functions of p27 in cell cycle, apoptosis, epigenetic modification and transcriptional regulation for the control of cell growth: A double-edged sword protein

The cell cycle is controlled by precise mechanisms to prevent malignancies such as cancer, and the cell needs these tight and advanced controls. Cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor p27 (also known as KIP₁) is a factor that inhibits the progression of the cell cycle by using specific molecular mechanisms. The inhibitory effect of p27 on the cell cycle is mediated by CDKs inhibition. Other important functions of p27 include cell proliferation, cell differentiation and apoptosis. Post- translational modification of p27 by phosphorylation and ubiquitination respectively regulates interaction between p27 and cyclin/CDK complex and degradation of p27. In this review, we focus on the multiple function of p27 in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, epigenetic modifications and post- translational modification, and briefly discuss the mechanisms and factors that have important roles in p27 functions.

HOTAIRM1 competed endogenously with miR-148a to regulate DLGAP1 in head and neck tumor cells

This study is aimed to explore the regulatory effect of lncRNA HOTAIR/miR-148a/DLGAP1 axis on head and neck tumor (HNT) cell growth, cell mobility, and invasiveness. HOTAIRM1, miR-148a, and DLGAP1 level in HNT tissues and adjacent normal tissues were measured by qRT-PCR. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell (migration and invasion) assay were used to survey the influence of HOTAIRM1, miR-148a, and DLGAP1 on Fadu cells. Nude mouse xenograft was utilized to validate the influence of HOTAIRM1 in vivo. Dual-luciferase reporter assay confirms the relationship between HOTAIRM1 and miR-148a, miR-148a, and DLGAP1. The expression level of HOTAIRM1 was downregulated in human HNT tissues and cells. Overexpression of HOTAIRM1 significantly moderated Fadu cells proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in vitro and impaired the tumorigenesis in vivo. The expression level of miR-148a was upregulated in human HNT tissue compared to the adjacent tissues. We identified that miR-148a was a target of HOTAIRM1 and its expression levels were reduced by HOTAIRM1. Transfection of miR-148a mimics increased proliferation, migration, and invasion of Fadu cells. DLGAP1 was identified as a novel target of miR-148a and its expression level was promoted by either HOTAIRM1 overexpression or miR-148a knockdown. Overexpression of DLGAP1 also facilitated the cell viability and metastasis of Fadu cells. HOTAIRM1 was confirmed as a tumor suppressor via sponging miR-148a and promote the expression of DLGAP1, which could be regarded as an important target for the prevention and treatment of HNT.

Proposed Molecular and miRNA Classification of Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is a common malignant neoplasm worldwide and one of the main cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite some advances in therapies, long-term survival of patients with advanced disease remains poor. Different types of classification have been used to stratify patients with GC for shaping prognosis and treatment planning. Based on new knowledge of molecular pathways associated with different aspect of GC, new pathogenetic classifications for GC have been and continue to be proposed. These novel classifications create a new paradigm in the definition of cancer biology and allow the identification of relevant GC genomic subsets by using different techniques such as genomic screenings, functional studies and molecular or epigenetic characterization. An improved prognostic classification for GC is essential for the development of a proper therapy for a proper patient population. The aim of this review is to discuss the state-of-the-art on combining histological and molecular classifications of GC to give an overview of the emerging therapeutic possibilities connected to the latest discoveries regarding GC.

NRAGE confers poor prognosis and promotes proliferation, invasion, and chemoresistance in gastric cancer

Neurotrophin receptor-interacting melanoma antigen-encoding protein (NRAGE) is a type II melanoma-associated antigen that plays an essential role in various processes, including cell differentiation and apoptosis. NRAGE has been shown to act as a cancer-related protein, with complex and apparently contradictory functions in a variety of cancers. In the current study, we examined the expression of NRAGE protein in 169 gastric cancer samples. NRAGE upregulation was correlated with advanced TNM stage, local invasion, and poor survival. Importantly, NRAGE could serve as an independent prognostic factor in patients with gastric cancer. We also examined the expression of NRAGE protein in GES-1 normal gastric epithelial cells and in six gastric cancer cell lines. Inhibition of NRAGE expression by transfection with small interfering RNA reduced the proliferation and invasion of MGC-803 and HGC-27 cells, as demonstrated by CCK-8 and Matrigel invasion assays. NRAGE depletion also sensitized HGC-27 and MGC-803 cells to cisplatin, as shown by CCK-8 and Annexin V/propidium iodide analyses. Western blot analysis also showed that NRAGE depletion negatively regulated Bcl-2 and p-ERK and upregulated ZO-1 and p27 expression levels. In conclusion, our results suggest that NRAGE acts as a tumor promoter in gastric cancer by facilitating cancer invasion and chemoresistance, possibly through regulation of p-ERK and Bcl-2.

p27-V109G Polymorphism Is Not Associated with the Risk of Prostate Cancer: A Case-Control Study of Han Chinese Men in Central China

Objective

We conducted an update meta-analysis aiming to verify the association between p27-V109G polymorphism and cancer risk, particular for prostate cancer (PCa). Then, we conducted a case-control study of Han Chinese in central China to verify the evidence-based results.

Methods

Relevant studies were collected from diverse databases up to March 2017. In addition, a hospital-based (H-B) case-control study enrolling 90 PCa patients and 140 healthy controls was included to verify these evidence-based findings. Genetic risk was calculated by odds ratio (OR) with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). The p27-V109G polymorphism was determined by MassARRAY genotyping method.

Results

Finally, twenty-four published studies comprising 9627 cases and 12,102 controls were enrolled for the current meta-analysis. Overall analysis suggested that p27-V109G polymorphism decreased overall cancer risk in allelic contrast, heterozygote, and dominant models. When stratified analysis was conducted by ethnicity, data revealed that p27-V109G polymorphism was associated with a decreased cancer risk in Caucasians. Highlighted in the subgroup analysis by cancer type, we uncovered a significantly decreased risk of PCa in allelic contrast, dominant, homogeneous, and recessive models. However, in the validation case-control study, we failed to uncover a positive association between p27-V109G polymorphism and PCa risk. In addition, negative results were also identified when subgroup analyses were stratified by age, tumor grade, tumor stage, PSA levels, and other measurements.

Conclusion

Although evidence-based results suggest that p27-V109G polymorphism plays a protective role in overall cancer risk, particularly for PCa, our case-control study failed to validate any association between this particular polymorphism and PCa risk.

MiR-148a functions to suppress metastasis and serves as a prognostic indicator in triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents a major challenge in the clinic due to its lack of reliable prognostic markers and targeted therapies. Accumulating evidence strongly supports the notion that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in tumorigenesis and could serve as biomarkers for diagnostic purposes. To identify miRNAs that functionally suppress metastasis of TNBC, we employed a concerted approach with selecting miRNAs that display differential expression profiles from bioinformatic analyses of breast cancer patient databases and validating top candidates with functional assays using breast cancer cell lines and mouse models. We have found that miR-148a exhibits properties as a tumor suppressor as its expression is inversely correlated with the ability of both human and mouse breast cancer cells to colonize the lung in mouse xenograft tumor models. Mechanistically, miR-148a appears to suppress the extravasation process of cancer cells, likely by targeting two genes WNT1 and NRP1 in a cell non-autonomous manner. Importantly, lower expression of miR-148a is detected in higher-grade tumor samples and correlated with increased likelihood to develop metastases and poor prognosis in subsets of breast cancer patients, particularly those with TNBC. Thus, miR-148a is functionally defined as a suppressor of breast cancer metastasis and may serve as a prognostic biomarker for this disease.

TLR3 Mediates Repair and Regeneration of Damaged Neonatal Heart through Glycolysis Dependent YAP1 Regulated miR-152 Expression

The present study investigated whether TLR3 is required for neonatal heart repair and regeneration following myocardial infarction (MI). TLR3 deficient neonatal mice exhibited impaired cardiac functional recovery and a larger infarct size, while wild type neonatal mice showed cardiac functional recovery and small infarct size after MI. The data suggest that TLR3 is essential for the regeneration and repair of damaged neonatal myocardium. In vitro treatment of neonatal cardiomyocytes with a TLR3 ligand, Poly (I:C), significantly enhances glycolytic metabolism, YAP1 activation and proliferation of cardiomyocytes which were prevented by a glycolysis inhibitor, 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG). Administration of 2-DG to neonatal mice abolished cardiac functional recovery and YAP activation after MI, suggesting that TLR3-mediated regeneration and repair of the damaged neonatal myocardium is through glycolytic-dependent YAP1 activation. Inhibition of YAP1 activation abolished Poly (I:C) induced proliferation of neonatal cardiomyocytes. Interestingly, activation of YAP1 increases the expression of miR-152 which represses the expression of cell cycle inhibitory proteins, P27kip1 and DNMT1, leading to cardiomyocyte proliferation. We conclude that TLR3 is required for neonatal heart regeneration and repair after MI. The mechanisms involve glycolytic-dependent YAP1 activation, resulting in miR-152 expression which targets DNMT1/p27kip1.

Effect of high-fat diet on secreted milk transcriptome in midlactation mice

High-fat diet (HFD) during lactation alters milk composition and is associated with development of metabolic diseases in the offspring. We hypothesized that HFD affects milk microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA content, which potentially impact offspring development. Our objective was to determine the effect of maternal HFD on secreted milk transcriptome. To meet this objective, 4 wk old female ICR mice were divided into two treatments: control diet containing 10% kcal fat and HFD containing 60% kcal fat. After 4 wk on CD or HFD, mice were bred while continuously fed the same diets. On postnatal day 2 (P2), litters were normalized to 10 pups, and half the pups in each litter were cross-fostered between treatments. Milk was collected from dams on P10 and P12. Total RNA was isolated from milk fat fraction of P10 samples and used for mRNA-Seq and small RNA-Seq. P12 milk was used to determine macronutrient composition. After 4 wk of prepregnancy feeding HFD mice weighed significantly more than did the control mice. Lactose and fat concentration were significantly ( P < 0.05) higher in milk of HFD dams. Pup weight was significantly greater ( P < 0.05) in groups suckled by HFD vs. control dams. There were 25 miRNA and over 1,500 mRNA differentially expressed (DE) in milk of HFD vs. control dams. DE mRNA and target genes of DE miRNA enriched categories that were primarily related to multicellular organismal development. Maternal HFD impacts mRNA and miRNA content of milk, if bioactive nucleic acids are absorbed by neonate differences may affect development.

MicroRNA-148a-3p enhances cisplatin cytotoxicity in gastric cancer through mitochondrial fission induction and cyto-protective autophagy suppression

Cisplatin (CDDP) resistance is a major clinical problem associated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer (GC) patients. In this study, we performed integrated analysis of TCGA data from microRNAs (miRNAs) expression matrix of GC patients who received CDDP-based chemotherapy with GEO dataset which contains differential miRNAs expression profiles in CDDP-resistant and -sensitive cell lines. We identified miR-148a-3p downregulation as a key step involved in CDDP resistance. Using a cohort consisting 105 GC patients who received CDDP-based therapy, we found that miR-148a-3p downregulation was associated with a decrease in patients' disease-free survival (DFS, P = 0.0077). A series of experiment data demonstrated that: 1) miR-148a-3p was downregulated in CDDP-resistant GC cell lines; 2) miR-148a-3p reconstitution sensitized CDDP-resistant cells to CDDP treatment through promoting mitochondrial fission and decreasing AKAP1 expression level; 3) AKAP1 played a novel role in CDDP resistance by inhibiting P53-mediated DRP1 dephosphorylation; 4) miR-148a-3p reconstitution in CDDP-resistant cells inhibits the cyto-protective autophagy by suppressing RAB12 expression and mTOR1 activation. Taken together, our study demonstrates that miR-148a-3p could be a promising prognostic marker or therapeutic candidate for overcoming CDDP resistance in GC.

MicroRNA-95 promotes myogenic differentiation by down-regulation of aminoacyl-tRNA synthase complex-interacting multifunctional protein 2

MicroRNA-95 (miR-95) is well known for its ability to promote the proliferation of a variety of cancer cells, but its function in skeletal muscle development has not been reported so far. Our laboratory has recently generated genetically engineered Meishan pigs containing a loss-of-function myostatin (MSTN) mutant (MSTN^-/-). These MSTN^-/- pigs grow and develop normally but show clear double muscle phenotype as observed in Belgian cattle. We observed that the expression of miR-95 was up-regulated in the longissimus dorsi from MSTN^-/- Meishan pigs at day 65 during embryo development. In this study, we investigated the role of miR-95 in the myogenic differentiation using a murine myoblast cell line C2C12. Our results revealed that miR-95 may play a very important role in regulating the expression of myogenic differentiation marker genes myosin heavy chain (MHC) and myogenin. By use of bioinformatical analysis and luciferase reporter gene assay, aminoacyl-tRNA synthase complex-interacting multifunctional protein 2 (AIMP2) gene was identified as a miR-95 target gene involved in myogenic differentiation. Our results indicated that higher miR-95 expression level leads to lower level of AIMP2 protein expression. When the endogenous expression of AIMP2 is inhibited by siRNA, the expression levels of myogenic differentiation marker genes MHC and myogenin increased, implying that AIMP2 negatively regulates myogenic differentiation. Taken together, it is likely that miR-95 promotes myogenic differentiation in C2C12 myoblasts and may play a positive functional role in skeletal muscle development by down regulating the expression of AIMP2 at protein level.

MiR-148a modulates HLA-G expression and influences tumor apoptosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common malignant tumor type, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) accounts for the majority of EC cases. Previous studies have reported that microRNA (miR)-148a is downregulated in patients with recurrent EC. The human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is expressed to a high level in primary ESCC tissues and is associated with prognosis. A previous luciferase assay indicated that HLA-G is a target of miR-148a regulation. The aim of the current study was to investigate the expression level of miR-148a in primary ESCC. The regulatory role of miR-148a in HLA-G expression and cell proliferation in ESCC cells was also investigated. The relative expression level of miR-148a was compared between ESCC tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues. The human ESCC cell line EC9706 was transfected with miR-148a mimic, non-homologous RNA duplex (negative control; NC) or empty vector (blank control; BC). Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were used to assess the level of HLA-G expression. The cells were stained with Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide and cell apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. The level of miR-148a expression was significantly lower in primary ESCC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues (P<0.01). In EC9706 cells transfected with miR-148a mimic, the rate of apoptosis was increased ~13-fold when compared with BC cells (P<0.01). Furthermore, the mRNA level of HLA-G was significantly reduced in cells transfected with miR-148a mimic (P<0.01). The protein levels of HLA-G were also notably decreased. Transfection with non-homologous RNA duplex did not influence the rate of cell apoptosis or expression of HLA-G when compared with the BC group. In conclusion, miR-148a was indicated to be involved in carcinogenesis in primary ESCC through the regulation of HLA-G expression. The current results suggest that miR-148a is a potential biomarker of ESCC.

Protein-coding genes, long non-coding RNAs combined with microRNAs as a novel clinical multi-dimension transcriptome signature to predict prognosis in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is prevalent in women which is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage with a high mortality rate. The aim of this study is to investigate protein-coding gene, long non-coding RNA, and microRNA associated with the prognosis of patients with ovarian serous carcinoma by mining data from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) public database. The clinical data of ovarian serous carcinoma patients was downloaded from TCGA database in September, 2016. The mean age and survival time of 407 patients with ovarian serous carcinoma were 59.71 ± 11.54 years and 32.98 ± 26.66 months. Cox's proportional hazards regression analysis was conducted to analyze genes that were significantly associated with the survival of ovarian serous carcinoma patients in the training group. Using the random survival forest algorithm, Kaplan-Meier and ROC analysis, we kept prognostic genes to construct the multi-dimensional transcriptome signature with max area under ROC curve (AUC) (0.69 in the training group and 0.62 in the test group). The selected signature composed by VAT1L, CALR, LINC01456, RP11-484L8.1, MIR196A1 and MIR148A, separated the training group patients into high-risk or low-risk subgroup with significantly different survival time (median survival: 35.3 months vs. 64.9 months, P < 0.001). The signature was validated in the test group showing similar prognostic values (median survival: 41.6 months in high-risk vs. 57.4 months in low-risk group, P=0.018). Chi-square test and multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that the signature was an independent prognostic factor for patients with ovarian serous carcinoma. Finally, we validated the expression of the genes experimentally.

MiR-148a suppresses invasion and induces apoptosis of breast cancer cells by regulating USP4 and BIM expression

MicroRNAs (miRs), acting as tumor suppressor or oncogenes genes, play a critical role in controlling tumor invasion, metastasis and survival via regulating a variety of targets. MiR-148a has been observed low expressed in several types of human cancers, and overexpression of miR-148a inhibits tumorigenesis. However, the molecular mechanisms of miR-148a-mediated these effects are largely elusive. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the biological function and molecular insight on miR-148a mediated roles in breast cancer cell. In the present study, we demonstrated that low miR-148a expression was observed in breast cancer cells compared to the normal human breast cells. Transfection with miR-148a inhibited growth, migration, invasion, and induced apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells. Ubiquitin-specific protease 4 (USP4) and BIM was the potential target of miR-148a. Indeed, miR-148a overexpression decreased expression of USP4 and increased BIM expression. Additionally, we revealed that miR-148a exerts its pro-apoptotic functions through upregulation of BIM, and miR-148a exerts its anti-invasive functions through downregulation of USP4. We therefore suggested that miR-148a is a tumor suppressor, which could be a promising therapeutic target for breast cancer.

Identification and characterization of the Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) miRNAs by deep sequencing and predication of their targets

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding small RNA of approximately 22 nt in length. They are considered as key regulators for gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and play an important role in the regulation of many fundamental biological processes. Andrias davidianus, as one of the largest amphibian on earth, may represent the transitional type of animal from aquatic to terrestrial life, but so far, no miRNA has been identified in the species. In this study, Illumina deep sequencing was used for high-throughput analysis of miRNAs in a pooled small RNA library isolated from eight tissues sample of A. davidianus including the spleen, liver, muscle, kidney, skin, testis, gut, and heart. In total, 6,213,146 reads were obtained, 5,962,175 of which were related to 143 unique miRNAs, including 140 conserved and three novel A. davidianus-specific miRNAs. Among them, seven conserved miRNAs and one novel miRNA were selected to validate their expression pattern by stem-loop qRT-PCR. Moreover, 4700 potential target genes were predicted for 143 A. davidianus miRNAs; GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway showed that most of the targets are involved in diverse biological processes including ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, FOXO signaling pathway, tight junction, and spliceosome. This study provides the first large-scale identification and characterization of A. davidianus miRNAs, and predicted their potential target genes; it will lay a valuable foundation for future understanding the role of these miRNAs on regulating diverse biological processes.

MicroRNA-204-5p inhibits invasion and metastasis of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma by suppressing forkhead box C1

Background and aim: Understanding the molecular biological mechanisms underlying laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) invasion and metastasis is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. We aimed to examine the expression of the tumor suppressor microRNA-204-5p (miR-204-5p) and its target gene, forkhead box C1 (FOXC1), in human LSCC and explore their roles in the malignant behaviors of LSCC Hep-2 and TU-177 cells. Methods: The regulatory effects of miR-204-5p on the 3' untranslated region of FOXC1 predicted by bioinformatics were tested by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to detect mRNA expression in 43 fresh samples of LSCC and corresponding adjacent normal mucosa (ANM). FOXC1 protein expression was examined by immunohistochemistry. miR-204-5p mimics and FOXC1 siRNA were transfected into LSCC cell lines Hep-2 and TU-177 to observe malignant behavior. miR-204-5p mimics were injected into Hep-2 or TU-177 xenograft tumors in nude mice to examine tumor growth.Results: The miR-204-5p mRNA level was lower in all 43 LSCC samples than in the ANM samples, but the FOXC1 level was higher in the LSCC samples than in the ANM samples. The miR-204-5p level was lower for stage III and IV cancer and lymph node N+ status samples than for stage I and II cancer and N0 status samples. FOXC1 mRNA and protein levels were higher for N+ than for N0 LSCC. The miR-204-5p mRNA levels were lower in Hep-2 and TU-177 cells than in ANM tissues, but FOXC1 mRNA levels were higher in Hep-2 and TU-177 cells than in ANM tissues. Dual-luciferase reporter assays demonstrated the targeted regulatory effects of miR-204-5p on the FOXC1 3' UTR. Cell proliferation and colony formation was facilitated with miR-204-5p mimics and FOXC1 siRNA, with weaker cell migration and invasion than the controls. Moreover, miR-204-5p overexpression or FOXC1 knockdown inhibited the EMT process in LSCC cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that injection of miR-204-5p into Hep-2 and TU-177 xenograft tumors in nude mice significantly inhibited tumor growth. Conclusions: miR-204-5p is involved in the invasion and metastasis of LSCC. It has a targeted regulatory effect on FOXC1 expression; malignant LSCC behaviors, including cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, are suppressed, and tumor growth in vivo is inhibited. This suggests that miR-204-5p may be a target for molecular therapy of LSCC in the future.

Co-Expression Network and Pathway Analyses Reveal Important Modules of miRNAs Regulating Milk Yield and Component Traits

Co-expression network analyses provide insights into the molecular interactions underlying complex traits and diseases. In this study, co-expression network analysis was performed to detect expression patterns (modules or clusters) of microRNAs (miRNAs) during lactation, and to identify miRNA regulatory mechanisms for milk yield and component traits (fat, protein, somatic cell count (SCC), lactose, and milk urea nitrogen (MUN)) via miRNA target gene enrichment analysis. miRNA expression (713 miRNAs), and milk yield and components (Fat%, Protein%, lactose, SCC, MUN) data of nine cows at each of six different time points (day 30 (D30), D70, D130, D170, D230 and D290) of an entire lactation curve were used. Four modules or clusters (GREEN, BLUE, RED and TURQUOISE) of miRNAs were identified as important for milk yield and component traits. The GREEN and BLUE modules were significantly correlated (|r| > 0.5) with milk yield and lactose, respectively. The RED and TURQUOISE modules were significantly correlated (|r| > 0.5) with both SCC and lactose. In the GREEN module, three abundantly expressed miRNAs (miR-148a, miR-186 and miR-200a) were most significantly correlated to milk yield, and are probably the most important miRNAs for this trait. DDR1 and DDHX1 are hub genes for miRNA regulatory networks controlling milk yield, while HHEX is an important transcription regulator for these networks. miR-18a, miR-221/222 cluster, and transcription factors HOXA7, and NOTCH 3 and 4, are important for the regulation of lactose. miR-142, miR-146a, and miR-EIA17-14144 (a novel miRNA), and transcription factors in the SMAD family and MYB, are important for the regulation of SCC. Important signaling pathways enriched for target genes of miRNAs of significant modules, included protein kinase A and PTEN signaling for milk yield, eNOS and Noth signaling for lactose, and TGF β, HIPPO, Wnt/β-catenin and cell cycle signaling for SCC. Relevant enriched gene ontology (GO)-terms related to milk and mammary gland traits included cell differentiation, G-protein coupled receptor activity, and intracellular signaling transduction. Overall, this study uncovered regulatory networks in which miRNAs interacted with each other to regulate lactation traits.

Down-regulated miRs specifically correlate with non-cardial gastric cancers and Lauren's classification system

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Gastric cancers are usually characterized using Lauren's classification into intestinal and diffuse types. We previously documented the down-modulation of miR31, miR148a, miR204, and miR375 in gastric cancers. We aimed this manuscript to investigate these miRs with the end-points of diagnosis, Lauren's classification and prognosis.

METHODS

A total of 117 resected non-cardial adenocarcinomas were evaluated for miRs' expressions. The performance of miRs' expressions for cancer diagnosis was tested using ROC curves. Logistic regression was conducted with the end-point of Lauren's classification. Kaplan-Meier and Cox analyses were performed for OS, DFS, and DSS. miRs' targets were reviewed using PRISMA method and BCL-2 was further investigated in cell lines.

RESULTS

ROC curves documented that miRs' down-modulation was significant in differentiating cancer versus normal tissues. Diffuse type cancers were associated with female sex, young age, and miR375 higher expression. We confirmed BCL-2 as a miR204 target. However, survival analyses confirmed the pathologic criteria (advanced stages, LNR, and low LNH) as the significant variables correlated to worse prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The down-modulation of miR31, miR148a, miR204, and miR375 is significantly associated with non-cardial gastric cancers and miR375 is specifically linked to Lauren's classification. Nevertheless, standard pathological features display as the independent variables associated with worse prognosis.

The repressive effect of miR-148a on Wnt/β-catenin signaling involved in Glabridin-induced anti-angiogenesis in human breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Glabridin (GLA), a major component extracted from licorice root, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, but few studies report its mechanism of inhibition of angiogenesis. This study was an extension of our previous work, which demonstrated that GLA suppressed angiogenesis in human breast cancer (MDA-MB-231 and Hs-578T) cells. Breast cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in females worldwide, and the major cause of mortality is metastasis that is primarily attributed to angiogenesis. Thus, anti-angiogenesis has become a strategy for the treatment of breast cancer.

METHODS

Cell viability of different concentration treatment groups were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The expression of several related genes in the Wnt1 signaling pathway in MDA-MB-231 and Hs-578T cells treated with GLA were measured at both the transcription and translation levels using quantitative real-time PCR analyses and western blotting. Immunofluorescence assay analyzed the nuclear translocation of β-catenin. The microRNA-inhibitor was used to knockdown microRNA-148a (miR-148a) expression. Angiogenic potentials of breast cancer cells were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and tube formation in vitro.

RESULTS

GLA attenuated angiogenesis by the suppression of miR-148a-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in two human breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and Hs-578T). GLA also upregulated the expression of miR-148a in a dose-dependent manner, miR-148a, which could directly target Wnt-3'-untranslated regions (UTRs), and decreased the expression of Wnt1, leading to β-catenin accumulation in the membranes from the cytoplasm and nucleus. Downregulation of miR-148a contributed to the reduction of GLA-induced suppression of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, the angiogenesis and vascular endothelial grow factor (VEGF) secretion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified a molecular mechanism of the GLA inhibition of angiogenesis through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway via miR-148a, suggesting that GLA could serve as an adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent for breast cancer.

Upregulation of MicroRNA-935 Promotes the Malignant Behaviors of Pancreatic Carcinoma PANC-1 Cells via Targeting Inositol Polyphosphate 4-Phosphatase Type I Gene (INPP4A)

THIS ARTICLE WAS WITHDRAWN BY THE PUBLISHER IN NOVEMBER 2020

RASSF1A inhibits gastric cancer cell proliferation by miR-711- mediated downregulation of CDK4 expression

Although interaction with DNA repair proteins has demonstrated that RASSF1A is a tumour suppressor gene, much attention has been directed in recent years towards its roles in regulating the cell cycle. However, the precise mechanism remains unclear. Uncovering how RASSF1A participates in regulating the cell cycle is critical to exploring effective therapeutic targets for gastric cancer. Here we show that RASSF1A could regulate 14 miRNAs’ expression in the typical human gastric cancer line SGC-7901, of which miR-711 was upregulated the most. Moreover, for SGC-7901 cells, miR-711 was found to downregulate CDK4 expression, and to arrest the cell cycle in the G1 phase. Our results suggest that RASSF1A inhibits the proliferation of gastric cancer cells by upregulating the expression of miR-711, which arrested gastric cancer cells in the G1 phase by downregulating expression of CDK4. This finding might provide us with a novel therapeutic target for gastric cancer by increasing RASSF1A expression via miR-711 regulation.

MicroRNA-148a Suppresses the Proliferation and Migration of Pancreatic Cancer Cells by Down-regulating ErbB3

OBJECTIVES

ErbB3 (HER3) has been associated with pancreatic cancer progression, but little is known about its regulatory mechanisms. We investigated whether microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate levels of ErbB3 in pancreatic cancer cells.

METHODS

We used bioinformatic analyses to search for miRNAs that can potentially target ERBB3. Furthermore, the biological consequences of the targeting of ERBB3 by miR-148a were examined by cell proliferation and migration assays in vitro.

RESULTS

We identified an inverse correlation between miR-148a and ErbB3 protein levels in pancreatic cancer tissue samples and cell lines. We identified that miR-148a directly recognizes the 3'-UTR of the ErbB3 transcript and regulates ErbB3 expression. We demonstrated that the repression of ERBB3 by miR-148a suppressed the proliferation and migration of pancreatic cancer cells. In PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cells, the repression of ErbB3 by miR-148a inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT, which eventually repressed the proliferation and migration of these cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the present study provides the first evidence that miR-148a plays a significant role in the suppression of pancreatic tumorigenesis via the inhibition of ErbB3 translation.

Potential Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Targets of MicroRNAs in Human Gastric Cancer

Human gastric cancer (GC) is characterized by a high incidence and mortality rate, largely because it is normally not identified until a relatively advanced stage owing to a lack of early diagnostic biomarkers. Gastroscopy with biopsy is the routine method for screening, and gastrectomy is the major therapeutic strategy for GC. However, in more than 30% of GC surgical patients, cancer has progressed too far for effective medical resection. Thus, useful biomarkers for early screening or detection of GC are essential for improving patients' survival rate. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in tumorigenesis. They contribute to gastric carcinogenesis by altering the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Because of their stability in tissues, serum/plasma and other body fluids, miRNAs have been suggested as novel tumor biomarkers with suitable clinical potential. Recently, aberrantly expressed miRNAs have been identified and tested for clinical application in the management of GC. Aberrant miRNA expression profiles determined with miRNA microarrays, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing approaches could be used to establish sample specificity and to identify tumor type. Here, we provide an up-to-date summary of tissue-based GC-associated miRNAs, describing their involvement and that of their downstream targets in tumorigenic and biological processes. We examine correlations among significant clinical parameters and prognostic indicators, and discuss recurrence monitoring and therapeutic options in GC. We also review plasma/serum-based, GC-associated, circulating miRNAs and their clinical applications, focusing especially on early diagnosis. By providing insights into the mechanisms of miRNA-related tumor progression, this review will hopefully aid in the identification of novel potential therapeutic targets.

CPEB1 restrains proliferation of Glioblastoma cells through the regulation of p27(Kip1) mRNA translation

The cytoplasmic element binding protein 1 (CPEB1) regulates many important biological processes ranging from cell cycle control to learning and memory formation, by controlling mRNA translation efficiency via 3' untranslated regions (3'UTR). In the present study, we show that CPEB1 is significantly downregulated in human Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) tissues and that the restoration of its expression impairs glioma cell lines growth. We demonstrate that CPEB1 promotes the expression of the cell cycle inhibitor p27(Kip1) by specifically targeting its 3'UTR, and competes with miR-221/222 binding at an overlapping site in the 3'UTR, thus impairing miR-221/222 inhibitory activity. Upon binding to p27(Kip1) 3'UTR, CPEB1 promotes elongation of poly-A tail and the subsequent translation of p27(Kip1) mRNA. This leads to higher levels of p27(Kip1) in the cell, in turn significantly inhibiting cell proliferation, and confers to CPEB1 a potential value as a tumor suppressor in Glioblastoma.

The potential function of microRNA in chordomas

Little is known about the molecular biology of chordomas, which are rare, chemoresistant tumors with no well-established treatment. miRNAs regulate gene networks and pathways. We aimed to evaluate the effects of dysregulated miRNA in chordomas would help reveal the underlying mechanisms of chordoma initiation and progression. In this study, miR-31, anti-miR-140-3p, anti-miR148a, and miR-222 were transiently transfected to chordoma cell lines and an MTS assay, apoptosis assay, and cell-cycle analysis were conducted to evaluate the effects. The mRNA level of predicted and confirmed targets of each miRNA, as well as the EMT and MET markers of U-CH1 and MUG-Chor1, were assessed with real-time polymerase chain reaction. Transient transfection of miRNA mimics was achieved, as each mimic increased or decreased the level of its corresponding miRNA. miR-31 decreased cell viability in MUG-Chor1 and U-CH2 after 72h, which is consistent with previous findings for U-CH1. Both miR-31 and anti-miR-148a induced apoptosis in all three cell lines. Although each miRNA had a similar pattern, miR-31 had the most effective S-phase arrest in all three cell lines. RDX, MET, DNMT1, DNMT3B, TRPS1, BIRC5, and KIT were found to be targeted by the selected miRNAs. The level of miR-222 in chordoma cell lines U-CH1 and MUG-Chor1 correlated positively with EMT markers and negatively with MET markers. This study uncovered the potential of miR-31, miR-140-3p, miR-148a, and miR-222-3p to be key molecules in the cell viability, cell cycle, and apoptosis in chordomas, as well as initiation, differentiation, and progression.

Systematic microRNAome profiling reveals the roles of microRNAs in milk protein metabolism and quality: insights on low-quality forage utilization

In this study, we investigated the molecular regulatory mechanisms of milk protein production in dairy cows by studying the miRNAomes of five key metabolic tissues involved in protein synthesis and metabolism from dairy cows fed high- and low-quality diets. In total, 340, 338, 337, 330, and 328 miRNAs were expressed in the rumen, duodenum, jejunum, liver, and mammary gland tissues, respectively. Some miRNAs were highly correlated with feed and nitrogen efficiency, with target genes involved in transportation and phosphorylation of amino acid (AA). Additionally, low-quality forage diets (corn stover and rice straw) influenced the expression of feed and nitrogen efficiency-associated miRNAs such as miR-99b in rumen, miR-2336 in duodenum, miR-652 in jejunum, miR-1 in liver, and miR-181a in mammary gland. Ruminal miR-21-3p and liver miR-2285f were predicted to regulate AA transportation by targeting ATP1A2 and SLC7A8, respectively. Furthermore, bovine-specific miRNAs regulated the proliferation and morphology of rumen epithelium, as well as the metabolism of liver lipids and branched-chain AAs, revealing bovine-specific mechanisms. Our results suggest that miRNAs expressed in these five tissues play roles in regulating transportation of AA for downstream milk production, which is an important mechanism that may be associated with low milk protein under low-quality forage feed.