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Arabi K, Nazemi Salman B, Rahimzadeh-Bajgiran F, Moghbeli M, Moghadas S, Saburi E. miRNAs in oral cancer; diagnostic and prognostic roles. Gene 2025; 951:149382. [PMID: 40049425 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2025.149382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2025] [Accepted: 02/28/2025] [Indexed: 03/15/2025]
Abstract
Oral cancer (OC) has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, making it one of the most often occurring types of cancer in patients. The clinical identification of OC is usually a time-consuming procedure, and the outlook for individuals with OC is generally unfavorable, as no particular biomarkers have been established to far. The main risk factors linked to OC are high levels of tobacco and alcohol intake, together with a reduced occurrence of viral infections, such as human papillomavirus. Furthermore, there is evidence suggesting that genetic characteristics that can be passed down from parents to offspring play a role in increasing the likelihood of getting ovarian cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are brief RNA molecules that do not code for proteins and have the ability to either repress or promote the growth of tumors during cancer development. They have been discovered to control multiple signaling pathways within cells, and their abnormal regulation has been demonstrated to be crucial in initiating and furthering the development of cancer. Additionally, they have the ability to either facilitate or impede the entire multi-stage process of cancer metastasis, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, and invasion, by selectively targeting essential genes involved in these pathways. Several microRNAs have the ability to regulate gene expression through various ways. In addition, like other types of cancer, OC has shown alterations in the expression of miRNAs, and certain miRNAs may have the ability to be used for diagnosis and treatment. The investigation of these miRNA could perhaps result in advancements in the specified instances of OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Arabi
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Bahareh Nazemi Salman
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan 4513956184, Iran.
| | | | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Sepehr Moghadas
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ehsan Saburi
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Imam Reza Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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2
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Aloliqi AA, Alnuqaydan AM, Albutti A, Alharbi BF, Rahmani AH, Khan AA. Current updates regarding biogenesis, functions and dysregulation of microRNAs in cancer: Innovative approaches for detection using CRISPR/Cas13‑based platforms (Review). Int J Mol Med 2025; 55:90. [PMID: 40242952 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2025.5531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2025] [Accepted: 03/04/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non‑coding RNAs, which perform a key role in cellular differentiation and development. Most human diseases, particularly cancer, are linked to miRNA functional dysregulation implicated in the expression of tumor‑suppressive or oncogenic targets. Cancer hallmarks such as continued proliferative signaling, dodging growth suppressors, invasion and metastasis, triggering angiogenesis, and avoiding cell death have all been demonstrated to be affected by dysregulated miRNAs. Thus, for the treatment of different cancer types, the detection and quantification of this type of RNA is significant. The classical and current methods of RNA detection, including northern blotting, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, rolling circle amplification and next‑generation sequencing, may be effective but differ in efficiency and accuracy. Furthermore, these approaches are expensive, and require special instrumentation and expertise. Thus, researchers are constantly looking for more innovative approaches for miRNA detection, which can be advantageous in all aspects. In this regard, an RNA manipulation tool known as the CRISPR and CRISPR‑associated sequence 13 (CRISPR/Cas13) system has been found to be more advantageous in miRNA detection. The Cas13‑based miRNA detection approach is cost effective and requires no special instrumentation or expertise. However, more research and validation are required to confirm the growing body of CRISPR/Cas13‑based research that has identified miRNAs as possible cancer biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, and as targets for treatment. In the present review, current updates regarding miRNA biogenesis, structural and functional aspects, and miRNA dysregulation during cancer are described. In addition, novel approaches using the CRISPR/Cas13 system as a next‑generation tool for miRNA detection are discussed. Furthermore, challenges and prospects of CRISPR/Cas13‑based miRNA detection approaches are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz A Aloliqi
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Al‑Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah M Alnuqaydan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Al‑Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aqel Albutti
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Al‑Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basmah F Alharbi
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Al‑Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arshad Husain Rahmani
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Al‑Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amjad Ali Khan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Al‑Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Kazemi M, Sanati M, Shekari Khaniani M, Ghafouri-Fard S. A review on the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks involved in inflammatory processes in Alzheimer's disease. Brain Res 2025; 1856:149595. [PMID: 40132722 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2025.149595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2025] [Revised: 03/01/2025] [Accepted: 03/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/27/2025]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that is the most frequent reason for dementia. Due to the increasing trend of aging in societies, it will place a large social and financial burden on society. Although beta amyloid plaques and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles are mentioned as the main events in this disorder, the exact molecular pathology and inflammatory regulatory networks involved in neuroinflammatory events, as a fundamental pathogenic mechanism remain unknown. Understanding these molecular network pathways in addition to helping to understand the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, can also help in the early diagnosis as well as the control of inflammatory processes that are involved in its progression. So, in this study, we intend to have an overview on the regulatory lncRNAs of Alzheimer's disease and their related miRNA and mRNAs, as well as the relationship of these regulatory pathways with inflammatory processes, so that we can provide a perspective for future studies in the field of diagnosis and possibly treatment of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Kazemi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahla Sanati
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Shekari Khaniani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Razavi Z, Esmaeili N, Katebian S, Aryanian Z, Mosayebi F, Hemmati DN, Kianfar N, Shakoei S. MicroRNAs in patients with pemphigus: A systematic review. Int Immunopharmacol 2025; 154:114606. [PMID: 40184809 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2025.114606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2025] [Accepted: 03/30/2025] [Indexed: 04/07/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pemphigus is a group of rare and severe autoimmune blistering diseases (AIBDs). MicroRNA's role in the pathogenesis of pemphigus disease has been previously studied, but MicroRNAmicroRNAs research in dermatology is still at its beginning. METHODS This review was carried out using a systematic search on PubMed, Scopus Embase, and Web of Science from 1990 to February 2025 to explore the role of microRNA in the diagnosis and severity evaluation of pemphigus disease. RESULTS A total of 8 studies were identified in the systematic review that indicated the expression level of 18 types of microRNA was significantly different from that of healthy people. CONCLUSIONS The collective data presented in this review indicate that MicroRNAmicroRNAs may help diagnose and predict the course of pemphigus, while the clinical application of these findings has yet to be verified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Razavi
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Esmaeili
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Katebian
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Aryanian
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mosayebi
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Delnia Namdari Hemmati
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nika Kianfar
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Safoura Shakoei
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Gómez-Rocal S, Cruz-Carrión Á, Morales D, García-Ruiz A, Suárez M, Arola-Arnal A. Foodomics approaches: New insights in phenolic compounds analysis. Food Res Int 2025; 208:116168. [PMID: 40263832 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.116168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2025] [Accepted: 03/09/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025]
Abstract
Fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods contain several bioactive substances such as phenolic compounds (PCs), that are plant secondary metabolites with attributed health properties. The study of the metabolic pathways of PCs, including those related with their synthesis, transport, accumulation, and degradation are essential to advance in this field of research. In this regard, omics tools such as foodomics are gaining relevance due to their versatility and their tremendous potential to generate significant advances in PC research. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the applications of omics technologies in PC analysis, including transcriptomics, micromics, proteomics and metabolomics, highlighting their role in metabolic pathways, current limitations, and emerging insights. Omics techniques as well as data analyses are continuously progressing, emerging new opportunities with onset of artificial intelligence and machine learning. However, significant limitations and challenges still remain. The immense diversity of PC chemical structures and their variability across plant species, varieties, and impact of agronomic factors complicate the analyses and limit the extrapolation of findings. Additionally, high data dimensionality, strong correlations among measured variables, and general lack of standardization in the different omics techniques can impact in the results. Addressing these limitations requires integrating multi-omics approaches and developing standardized protocols to enhance comparability and interpretation in PC research. In summary, foodomics approaches arise as essential for the complete mapping of PC biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saioa Gómez-Rocal
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Nutrigenomics Research Group, Tarragona 43007, Spain; Institute of Health Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, 43204, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Center of Environmental, Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Reus 43201, Spain
| | - Álvaro Cruz-Carrión
- Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA.
| | - Diego Morales
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Nutrigenomics Research Group, Tarragona 43007, Spain
| | - Almudena García-Ruiz
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Nutrigenomics Research Group, Tarragona 43007, Spain; Institute of Health Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, 43204, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Center of Environmental, Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Reus 43201, Spain
| | - Manuel Suárez
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Nutrigenomics Research Group, Tarragona 43007, Spain; Institute of Health Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, 43204, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Center of Environmental, Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Reus 43201, Spain.
| | - Anna Arola-Arnal
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Nutrigenomics Research Group, Tarragona 43007, Spain; Institute of Health Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, 43204, Spain; Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Center of Environmental, Food and Toxicological Technology (TecnATox), Reus 43201, Spain
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Aryal A, Harmon AC, Noël A, Yu Q, Varner KJ, Dugas TR. AhR Activation at the Air-Blood Barrier Alters Systemic microRNA Release After Inhalation of Particulate Matter Containing Environmentally Persistent Free Radicals. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2025; 25:651-665. [PMID: 40214911 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-025-09989-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2025] [Accepted: 03/25/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025]
Abstract
Particulate matter containing environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) is formed when organic pollutants are incompletely burned and adsorb to the surface of particles containing redox-active metals. Our prior studies showed that in mice, EPFR inhalation impaired vascular relaxation in a dose- and endothelium-dependent manner. We also observed that activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in the alveolar type-II (AT-II) cells that form the air-blood interface stimulates the release of systemic factors that promote endothelial dysfunction in vessels peripheral to the lung. AhR is a recognized regulator of microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, and miRNA control diverse signaling pathways. We thus hypothesized that systemic EPFR-induced vascular endothelial dysfunction is initiated via AhR activation in AT-II cells, resulting in a systemic release of miRNA. Using a combustion reactor, we generated EPFR of two free radical concentrations-EPFRlo (1016-17 radicals/g particles) and EPFR (1018-19 radicals/g)-and exposed mice by inhalation. EFPR inhalation resulted in changes in a distinct array of miRNA in the plasma, and these miRNAs are linked to multiple systemic effects, including cardiovascular diseases and dysregulation of cellular and molecular pathways associated with cardiovascular dysfunction. We identified 17 miRNA in plasma that were altered dependent upon both AhR activation in AT-II cells and ~ 280 ug/m3 EPFR exposure. Using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, we found that 5 of these miRNAs have roles in modulating endothelin-1 and endothelial nitric oxide signaling, known regulators of endothelial function. Furthermore, EPFR exposure reduced the expression of lung adherens and gap junction proteins in control mice but not AT-II-AhR deficient mice, and reductions in barrier function may facilitate miRNA release from the lungs. In summary, our findings support that miRNA may be systemic mediators promoting endothelial dysfunction mediated via EPFR-induced AhR activation at the air-blood interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Aryal
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Ashlyn C Harmon
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Alexandra Noël
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Qingzhao Yu
- Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Kurt J Varner
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Tammy R Dugas
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA.
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7
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Ye X, Wang X, Zhang S, Wang Y, Han Y, Wang Z, Shao X. miRNA let-7a regulates apoptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells involved in sepsis-associated acute kidney injury. Int Immunopharmacol 2025; 153:114485. [PMID: 40121744 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2025.114485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2025] [Accepted: 03/11/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the molecular mechanism by which the miRNA let-7a regulates renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis by influencing the activity of the PI3K/Akt pathway, which is involved in the development of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI). METHODS A sepsis-associated acute kidney injury model was constructed in vitro and in vivo using LPS, and the expression of the miRNA let-7a and activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway were detected in SA-AKI. Apoptosis marker molecules and inflammatory factor expression were detected by transfecting miRNA let-7a mimics with LPS-stimulated human renal tubular epithelial cells (HKCs) or using the PI3K/Akt pathway inhibitor LY294002. Bioassay analysis elucidated the relationship between miRNA let-7a and the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The mechanism was validated in primary renal tubular epithelial cells. RESULTS In the in vivo and in vitro models, miRNA let-7a expression was significantly reduced, and the PI3K/Akt pathway was activated. When miRNA let-7a was overexpressed or the PI3K/Akt pathway was inhibited, the inflammatory response of renal tubular epithelial cells was attenuated. Bioassay analysis verified that the miRNA let-7a binds to the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The miRNA let-7a-PI3K/Akt regulatory axis regulates the apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells in primary tubular epithelial cells. CONCLUSION The miRNA let-7a regulates inflammation and apoptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells by affecting the activity of the PI3K/Akt pathway in the development of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaokun Ye
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Clinical laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuesong Wang
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Shichao Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Wang
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingwen Han
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyi Shao
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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Zhang J, Qiu Y, Ma F, Niu X, Bai P, Da M, Ma J. Targeting miR-103a-3p/IGFBP5 axis: a potential therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer progression. Discov Oncol 2025; 16:591. [PMID: 40263134 PMCID: PMC12014892 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-02390-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is a significant contributor to worldwide cancer deaths with limited treatment options and poor patient survival. MicroRNAs play crucial roles as potential oncogenic factors or tumor suppressors in cancers by modulating cell cycle progression, proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. However, the functional implications of miR-103a-3p in gastric cancer remain poorly known. The current study demonstrates a noteworthy increase in the expression of miR-103a-3p in gastric cancer tissues when compared to neighboring non-cancerous tissues. Our functional investigations indicate that the upregulation of miR-103a-3p contributes to enhanced proliferation, invasion, and migration capabilities in gastric cancer cells. After mechanistic studies, our findings indicate that miR-103a-3p may directly target insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) in gastric cancer. Moreover, rescue experiments reveal that IGFBP5 overexpression can attenuate the progression induced by miR-103a-3p in gastric cancer cells. In summary, our findings suggest that the miR-103a-3p/IGFBP5 axis may play a role in gastric cancer progression, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target and prognostic marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junrui Zhang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Fubin Ma
- Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000, China
| | - Xingdong Niu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Pengwei Bai
- Clinical Medical College of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000, China
| | - Mingxu Da
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Junfeng Ma
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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Pallavi R, Soni BL, Jha GK, Sanyal S, Fatima A, Kaliki S. Tumor heterogeneity in retinoblastoma: a literature review. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2025; 44:46. [PMID: 40259075 PMCID: PMC12011974 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-025-10263-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2025] [Indexed: 04/23/2025]
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity, characterized by the presence of diverse cell populations within a tumor, is a key feature of the complex nature of cancer. This diversity arises from the emergence of cells with varying genomic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and phenotypic profiles over the course of the disease. Host factors and the tumor microenvironment play crucial roles in driving both inter-patient and intra-patient heterogeneity. These diverse cell populations can exhibit different behaviors, such as varying rates of proliferation, responses to treatment, and potential for metastasis. Both inter-patient heterogeneity and intra-patient heterogeneity pose significant challenges to cancer therapeutics and management. In retinoblastoma, while heterogeneity at the clinical presentation level has been recognized for some time, recent attention has shifted towards understanding the underlying cellular heterogeneity. This review primarily focuses on retinoblastoma heterogeneity and its implications for therapeutic strategies and disease management, emphasizing the need for further research and exploration in this complex and challenging area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani Pallavi
- The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Bihari Lal Soni
- The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Gaurab Kumar Jha
- The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Shalini Sanyal
- The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Azima Fatima
- The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Swathi Kaliki
- The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
- Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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Culina S, Commère PH, Turc E, Jouy A, Pellegrini S, Roux T, Hasan M, Monot M, Michel F. MicroRNA signatures of CD4 + T cell subsets in healthy and multiple sclerosis subjects determined by small RNA-sequencing. J Neuroimmunol 2025; 401:578531. [PMID: 40010156 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2025.578531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 01/13/2025] [Accepted: 01/19/2025] [Indexed: 02/28/2025]
Abstract
Diverse CD4+ T cell subsets with specialized functions operate at different phases of the immune response. Among these are phenotypically and functionally characterized naïve, central memory (CM), effector memory (EM), and regulatory (Treg) cells. Using small RNA-sequencing, we have profiled miRNAs in these cell subsets from healthy subjects and untreated patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). MiRNA genomic clustering and abundance were also investigated. From the 60 most differentially expressed miRNAs, broad and highly selective core signatures were determined for naïve and memory cells at homeostasis, while miR-146a-5p was strongly upregulated in Treg cells. In line with other studies, a 5-miRNA core was identified for naïve cells (miR-125b-5p, miR-99a-5p, miR-365a-3p, miR-365b-3p, miR-193b-3p). In memory cells, a number of identical miRNAs were more expressed in EM than CM cells, supporting the progressive T cell differentiation model. This was particularly the case for an 8-miRNA core (members from miR-23a∼27a∼24-2, miR-23b∼27b∼24-1, miR-221∼222 clusters, miR-22-3p, miR-181c-5p) and for the large ChrXq27.3 miR-506∼514 cluster. Interestingly, most of these miRNAs were reported to negatively regulate cell proliferation and survival. Finally, we found that the miRNA core signatures of naïve and memory CD4+ T cells were conserved in RRMS patients. Only few miRNAs were quantitatively modified and, among these, miR-1248 was validated to be downregulated in EM cells. Overall, this study expands and provides novel insights into miRNA profiling of CD4+ T cell subsets that may be useful for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slobodan Culina
- Single Cell Biomarkers UTechS, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | | | - Elodie Turc
- Biomics Technological Platform, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Axel Jouy
- Paris Saclay University, Saclay, France; T cell activation and function DIO3 team, Department of Immunology, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Sandra Pellegrini
- Unit of Cytokine Signaling, Inserm U1224, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Roux
- CRC-SEP, Department of Neurology, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Milena Hasan
- Single Cell Biomarkers UTechS, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Marc Monot
- Biomics Technological Platform, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Frédérique Michel
- Unit of Cytokine Signaling, Inserm U1224, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France; T cell activation and function DIO3 team, Department of Immunology, Paris Cité University, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
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11
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Lou Y, Wang Y, Lu J, Chen X. MicroRNA-targeted nanoparticle delivery systems for cancer therapy: current status and future prospects. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2025:1-14. [PMID: 40231694 DOI: 10.1080/17435889.2025.2492542] [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: 12/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2025] [Indexed: 04/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Recently, the regulatory effects of microRNAs (miRNAs) on gene expression have been exploited for applications in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, neurological diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. However, the susceptibility of miRNAs to degradation during somatic circulation and the challenges associated with their delivery to target tissues and cells have limited the clinical application of miRNAs. For application in tumor therapy, it is essential for miRNAs to specifically target cancer cells. Therefore, various novel miRNA delivery systems that protect miRNA against the activity of serum nuclease and deliver miRNA to target cells have been developed and optimized. This review introduces the passive and active targeting strategies of nanoparticles, summarizes the recent progress of miRNA nanocarriers with tumor-targeting ability, and discusses various nanoparticle delivery systems and their antitumor applications. Additionally, this review focuses on the translational challenges and potential strategies for advancing miRNA-based therapies into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Lou
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yutian Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Lu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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12
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Saadh MJ, Muhammad FA, Alazzawi TS, Fahdil AA, Athab ZH, Tuxtayev J, Alsaikhan F, Farhood B. Regulation of Apoptotic Pathways by MicroRNAs: A Therapeutic Strategy for Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2025:10.1007/s12035-025-04833-5. [PMID: 40220245 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-025-04833-5] [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: 12/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2025] [Indexed: 04/14/2025]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder marked by a gradual decline in memory and cognitive functions. It is characterized by the presence of senile plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal degeneration, affecting a significant portion of the human population. A key feature of various nervous system disorders, including AD, is extensive cellular death caused by apoptosis, which affects not only neurons but also glial cells. While apoptosis plays a vital role in eliminating certain cells and supporting normal development, alterations or disruptions in apoptotic pathways can lead to harmful neurodegenerative conditions such as AD. Thus, targeting apoptosis presents a promising therapeutic approach for these diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNA, play diverse roles in cellular functions, including proliferation, gene expression regulation, programmed cell death, intercellular communication, and angiogenesis. By modulating regulatory genes, miRNAs can influence apoptosis, either promoting or inhibiting it. Aberrant expression of miRNAs can impact multiple apoptotic pathways, potentially driving the progression of AD and related health issues. This review summarizes recent research on miRNAs and their dual role in exacerbating or protecting against neural cell damage in AD by altering apoptotic pathways. The regulation of apoptosis by miRNAs offers a prospective therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan
| | | | - Tuqa S Alazzawi
- College of Dentist, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ali A Fahdil
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Zainab H Athab
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Zahrawi University College, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Jamshid Tuxtayev
- Department of Surgical Diseases, Faculty of Pediatrics, Samarkand State Medical Institute, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
- School of Pharmacy, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bagher Farhood
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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13
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Huang Q, Chen Z, Zhao L, Jiang L, Wang Y, Feng Q, Lei Y, Li X, Zhong D. PESI-MS combined with AI to build a prediction model for lymph node metastasis of papillary thyroid cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2025; 270:155952. [PMID: 40273526 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2025.155952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2025] [Revised: 03/17/2025] [Accepted: 03/28/2025] [Indexed: 04/26/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Construct a prediction model for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) using Probe Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (PESI - MS) combined with artificial intelligence (AI), to assist in the preoperative prediction of lymph node metastasis in thyroid carcinoma by intraoperative frozen pathology. METHODS A total of 78 fresh tissue samples of PTC and their adjacent normal tissues were collected. After proper processing, these samples were subjected to detection and analysis using PESI - MS. Subsequently, a classification prediction model was established based on the mass spectrometry test results integrated with AI algorithms. Support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), multi - layer perceptron (MLP), and Gradient boosting classifier (GBC) were employed for model building. Employing Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) to conduct a single-blinded test on 10 independent PTC samples with unknown lymph node metastasis status. RESULTS The SVM, and MLP algorithms achieved an accuracy of 100 % in differentiating PTC with or without LNM, while the RF and GBC algorithm reached an accuracy of 92 %. All four algorithms demonstrated an accuracy of 100 % in distinguishing PTC from adjacent normal tissues. CONCLUSION The combination of PESI - MS and AI exhibits high accuracy in predicting LNM in PTC and performs remarkably well in the rapid diagnosis of PTC. This approach can effectively assist in the rapid diagnosis of intraoperative pathology, assist in determining the surgical scope of thyroid lymph node dissection, and offer more precise treatment for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qixin Huang
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100006, China; Department of Pathology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zhenhe Chen
- Shimadzu China Innovation Center, Shimadzu China, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Lingyu Zhao
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100006, China; Department of Pathology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Lichao Jiang
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100006, China; Department of Pathology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Department of Pathology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Qianqian Feng
- Department of Pathology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yajuan Lei
- Shimadzu China Innovation Center, Shimadzu China, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Shimadzu China Innovation Center, Shimadzu China, Beijing 100020, China.
| | - Dingrong Zhong
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100006, China; Department of Pathology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China.
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14
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Hasan R, Zhao Z, Li Y, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Cheng K. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) in pancreatic cancer progression and diagnosis. J Control Release 2025; 380:269-282. [PMID: 39889882 PMCID: PMC11908897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.01.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2024] [Revised: 01/16/2025] [Accepted: 01/24/2025] [Indexed: 02/03/2025]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive malignancies with poor prognostic outcomes, necessitating the exploration of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for early detection and effective treatment. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted by cells, have gained considerable attention in cancer research due to their role in intercellular communication and their potential as non-invasive biomarkers. This review focuses on the role of sEVs in the progression of pancreatic cancer and their application as biomarkers. We delve into the biogenesis, composition, and functional implications of sEVs in pancreatic tumor biology, emphasizing their involvement in processes such as tumor growth, metastasis, immune modulation, and chemotherapy resistance. In addition, we discuss the challenges in isolating and characterizing sEVs. The review also highlights recent advances in the utilization of sEV-derived biomarkers for the early diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of pancreatic cancer. By synthesizing the latest findings, we aim to underscore the significance of sEVs in pancreatic cancer and their potential to revolutionize patient management through improved diagnostics and targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reaid Hasan
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Yuanke Li
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Yanli Liu
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Kun Cheng
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA.
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15
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Huang X, Zhu J, Wei T, Luo L, Li C, Zhao M. Epigenetic Modifications in Vitiligo. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2025; 68:39. [PMID: 40205284 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-025-09048-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
Vitiligo is an autoimmune depigmenting skin disorder and can affect the mental health of the patients. Current research suggests that the development of vitiligo involves a combination of genetic susceptibility, immune imbalance, and oxidative stress. However, its pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. Epigenetic modification has gained increasing attention as an emerging way to regulate gene expression at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level. Currently known modes of epigenetic modification include the regulation of non-coding RNAs, DNA methylation, and histone modification. Studies suggest they play important roles in tumors, immune disorders, and inflammatory diseases. In recent years, the value of epigenetics in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of vitiligo has been explored. They showed the potential to serve as biomarkers and play a therapeutic role. In this review, we summarize the epigenetic modification mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of vitiligo, including physiological processes such as immune homeostasis, melanocyte survival, cell adhesion and migration, and metabolism. This will help us fully understand the progress of epigenetic research in vitiligo and lay the foundation for targeted therapeutic-related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianqi Wei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingling Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chengrang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ming Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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16
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Chen Z, Wang G, Song L, Zhang Y, Wang G. Differential expression and correlation analysis of global transcriptome for obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome. Front Mol Biosci 2025; 12:1529386. [PMID: 40264951 PMCID: PMC12011602 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2025.1529386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
In order to investigate the gene expression patterns and molecular regulatory mechanisms of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), the global transcriptome expression profiles of OSAHS patients and healthy people were analyzed using transcriptome sequencing technology. Differential expression of circular RNA, microRNA, long noncoding RNA, and messenger RNA was investigated between the two groups. To further explore the role of differentially expressed genes in OSAHS, we functionally annotated the differentially expressed genes using enrichment analysis of GO and KEGG pathways. Finally, the ceRNA regulatory network of OSAHS was constructed. And validate the differentially expressed mRNA through qRT-PCR analysis. The results showed that 349 circRNAs,552 lncRNAs,205 miRNAs, 502 mRNAs were differentially expressed in patients with OSAHS compared with the healthy population. Terms such as centrosome, positive regulation of execution phase of apoptosis, oxidoreductase activity, regulation of Th 17 cell differentiation and immune response, neutrophil mediated cytotoxicity were enriched in the GO list, suggesting a potential correlation with OSAHS. Pathway analysis showed that Ferroptosis, Herpes simplex virus 1 infection, Pathways in cancer, Hematopoietic cell lineage and other pathways play an important role in OSAHS. By constructing a ternary network, two circRNAs and four lncRNAs were screened as ceRNAs to compete with miRNAs in the co-expression network, and associated with OSAHS by regulating the function of mRNAs in the network. By constructing a quaternary network miR-8485 and miR-6089 were found to be the top two ranked miRNAs most closely associated with OSAHS. Both qRT-PCR and transcriptome sequencing analysis showed similar trends. This provides more theoretical basis for exploring the complex molecular mechanisms of global transcriptome in the development of OSAHS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Chen
- School of Clinical Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
| | - Guihua Wang
- Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
| | - Lichen Song
- School of Clinical Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Medicine Department, School of Clinical Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
| | - Guangming Wang
- Center of Genetic Testing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
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17
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Cho H, Ha SE, Singh R, Kim D, Ro S. microRNAs in Type 1 Diabetes: Roles, Pathological Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:3301. [PMID: 40244147 PMCID: PMC11990060 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26073301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2025] [Revised: 03/26/2025] [Accepted: 03/28/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the progressive destruction of pancreatic β-cells, leading to insulin deficiency. The primary drivers of β-cell destruction in T1D involve autoimmune-mediated processes that trigger chronic inflammation and ultimately β-cell loss. Regulatory microRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in modulating these processes by regulating gene expression through post-transcriptional suppression of target mRNAs. Dysregulated miRNAs have been implicated in T1D pathogenesis, serving as both potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review explores the role of miRNAs in T1D, highlighting their involvement in disease mechanisms across both rodent models and human patients. While current antidiabetic therapies manage T1D symptoms, they do not prevent β-cell destruction, leaving patients reliant on lifelong insulin therapy. By summarizing key miRNA expression profiles in diabetic animal models and patients, this review explores the potential of miRNA-based therapies to restore β-cell function and halt or slow the progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Seungil Ro
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (H.C.); (S.E.H.); (R.S.); (D.K.)
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18
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Kim H, Lee YY, Kim VN. The biogenesis and regulation of animal microRNAs. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2025; 26:276-296. [PMID: 39702526 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00805-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, yet profoundly influential, non-coding RNAs that base-pair with mRNAs to induce RNA silencing. Although the basic principles of miRNA biogenesis and function have been established, recent breakthroughs have yielded important new insights into the molecular mechanisms of miRNA biogenesis. In this Review, we discuss the metazoan miRNA biogenesis pathway step-by-step, focusing on the key biogenesis machinery, including the Drosha-DGCR8 complex (Microprocessor), exportin-5, Dicer and Argonaute. We also highlight newly identified cis-acting elements and their impact on miRNA maturation, informed by advanced high-throughput and structural studies, and discuss recently discovered mechanisms of clustered miRNA processing, target recognition and target-directed miRNA decay (TDMD). Lastly, we explore multiple regulatory layers of miRNA biogenesis, mediated by RNA-protein interactions, miRNA tailing (uridylation or adenylation) and RNA modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haedong Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Young-Yoon Lee
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - V Narry Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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19
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Holland AM, Jehoul R, Vranken J, Wohl SG, Boesmans W. MicroRNA regulation of enteric nervous system development and disease. Trends Neurosci 2025; 48:268-282. [PMID: 40089421 PMCID: PMC11981837 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2025.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2025] [Accepted: 02/18/2025] [Indexed: 03/17/2025]
Abstract
The enteric nervous system (ENS), an elaborate network of neurons and glia woven through the gastrointestinal tract, is integral for digestive physiology and broader human health. Commensurate with its importance, ENS dysfunction is linked to a range of debilitating gastrointestinal disorders. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), with their pleiotropic roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation, serve as key developmental effectors within the ENS. Herein, we review the regulatory dynamics of miRNAs in ENS ontogeny, showcasing specific miRNAs implicated in both congenital and acquired enteric neuropathies, such as Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR), achalasia, intestinal neuronal dysplasia (IND), chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO), and slow transit constipation (STC). By delineating miRNA-mediated mechanisms in these diseases, we underscore their importance for ENS homeostasis and highlight their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Marie Holland
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Pathology, GROW - Research Institute for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Reindert Jehoul
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Jorunn Vranken
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Stefanie Gabriele Wohl
- Department of Biological and Vision Sciences, College of Optometry, The State University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Werend Boesmans
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Pathology, GROW - Research Institute for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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20
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Saadh MJ, Hussain QM, Alazzawi TS, Fahdil AA, Athab ZH, Yarmukhamedov B, Al-Nuaimi AMA, Alsaikhan F, Farhood B. MicroRNA as Key Players in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Insights into Their Role in Metastasis. Biochem Genet 2025; 63:1014-1062. [PMID: 39103713 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10897-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common cancer in global epidemiology. Both the frequency and fatality of this malignancy have shown an upward trend over recent decades. Liver cancer is a significant concern due to its propensity for both intrahepatic and extrahepatic metastasis. Liver cancer metastasis is a multifaceted process characterized by cell detachment from the bulk tumor, modulation of cellular motility and invasiveness, enhanced proliferation, avoidance of the immune system, and spread either via lymphatic or blood vessels. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs) playing a crucial function in the intricate mechanisms of tumor metastasis. A number of miRNAs can either increase or reduce metastasis via several mechanisms, such as control of motility, proliferation, attack by the immune system, cancer stem cell properties, altering the microenvironment, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Besides, two other types of non-coding RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) can competitively bind to endogenous miRNAs. This competition results in the impaired ability of the miRNAs to inhibit the expression of the specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that are targeted. Increasing evidence has shown that the regulatory axis comprising circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA is correlated with the regulation of HCC metastasis. This review seeks to present a thorough summary of recent research on miRNAs in HCC, and their roles in the cellular processes of EMT, invasion and migration, as well as the metastasis of malignant cells. Finally, we discuss the function of the lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network as a crucial modulator of carcinogenesis and the regulation of signaling pathways or genes that are relevant to the metastasis of HCC. These findings have the potential to offer valuable insight into the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches for management of liver cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan
| | | | - Tuqa S Alazzawi
- College of Dentist, National University of Science and Technology, Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ali A Fahdil
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Zainab H Athab
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Zahrawi University College, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Bekhzod Yarmukhamedov
- Department of Public Health and Healthcare management, Samarkand State Medical University, 18 Amir Temur Street, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | | | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
- School of Pharmacy, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bagher Farhood
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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21
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Frank JK, Kampleitner C, Heimel P, Leinfellner G, Hanetseder D, Sperger S, Frischer A, Schädl B, Tangl S, Lindner C, Gamauf J, Grillari-Voglauer R, O’Brien FJ, Pultar M, Redl H, Hackl M, Grillari J, Marolt Presen D. Circulating miRNAs are associated with successful bone regeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2025; 13:1527493. [PMID: 40225119 PMCID: PMC11985807 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2025.1527493] [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: 11/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2025] [Indexed: 04/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Bone healing is a well-orchestrated process involving various bone cells and signaling pathways, where disruptions can result in delayed or incomplete healing. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs capable of influencing various cellular processes, including bone remodeling. Due to their biological relevance and stable presence in biofluids, miRNAs may serve as candidates for diagnosis and prognosis of delayed bone healing. The aim of the study was to investigate changes in miRNAs circulating in the blood during the healing of rat calvaria defects as biomarkers of successful bone regeneration. Methods Standardized calvaria defects were created in 36 Wistar rats with a trephine drill and treated with collagen hydroxyapatite (CHA) scaffolds. The treatment groups included CHA scaffolds only, CHA scaffolds containing a plasmid coding for bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) and miR-590-5p, CHA scaffolds containing mesenchymal stromal cell-derived extracellular vesicles, and empty defects as a control group. After 1, 4 and 8 weeks of healing, the animals were evaluated by microcomputed tomography (microCT), as well as subjected to histological analyses. Blood was sampled from the tail vein prior to surgeries and after 1, 4, and 8 weeks of healing. miRNAs circulating in the plasma were determined using next-generation sequencing. Results Variability of bone regeneration within the four groups was unexpectedly high and did not result in significant differences between the groups, as indicated by the microCT and histological analyses of the newly formed bone tissue. However, irrespective of the treatment group and regenerative activity, we identified miRNAs with distinct expression patterns of up- and downregulation at different time points. Furthermore, rats with high and low regenerative activity were characterized by distinct circulating miRNA profiles. miR-133-3p was identified as the top upregulated miRNA and miR-375-3p was identified as the top downregulated miRNA in animals exhibiting strong regeneration over all time points evaluated. Conclusion Our study indicates that regardless of the treatment group, success or lack of bone regeneration is associated with a distinct expression pattern of circulating microRNAs. Further research is needed to determine whether their levels in the blood can be used as predictive factors of successful bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K. Frank
- Herz Jesu Krankenhaus, Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carina Kampleitner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Donath Laboratory for Hard Tissue and Biomaterial Research, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Patrick Heimel
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Donath Laboratory for Hard Tissue and Biomaterial Research, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriele Leinfellner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dominik Hanetseder
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Simon Sperger
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amelie Frischer
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Schädl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Tangl
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Donath Laboratory for Hard Tissue and Biomaterial Research, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Lindner
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Evercyte GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johanna Gamauf
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Evercyte GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Fergal J O’Brien
- Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland & Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marianne Pultar
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- TAmiRNA GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz Redl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Hackl
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- TAmiRNA GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Grillari
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, BOKU University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Darja Marolt Presen
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
- Centre for the Technologies of Gene and Cell Therapy, The National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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22
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Akkuş N, Kaya Çelik E, Ozdemir S, Sapmaz E. Unveiling the role of miRNA in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma progression: a retrospective study. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2025:10.1007/s00405-025-09306-y. [PMID: 40153047 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-025-09306-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2025] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/30/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). This study investigates the expression patterns of specific cancer-associated miRNAs in early and advanced stage LSCC to evaluate their potential role in disease progression. METHODS The expression levels of miRNA-21, miRNA-802, miRNA-29 and miRNA-9 were analysed in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues from 44 LSCC patients (20 early stage, 24 advanced stage) using quantitative multiplex RT-PCR. Tissue samples were analysed retrospectively. RESULTS The expression level of hsa-miR-9a expression was significantly upregulated (5.2-fold) in advanced stage patients compared to the early stage group (p = 0.0088). Similarly, hsa-miR-802a showed significantly higher expression (9.2-fold) in advanced stage patients compared to early stage patients (p = 0.005). No significant differences in miRNA-21 and miRNA-29 expression levels were observed between the groups. CONCLUSION As a result of the study, elevated miRNA levels in advanced stage patients can be used in targeted therapy and evaluated as a treatment option in LSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nejmiye Akkuş
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Elif Kaya Çelik
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey.
| | - Suleyman Ozdemir
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Emrah Sapmaz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey
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23
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Wang Y, Huang D, Li M, Yang M. MicroRNA-99 family in cancer: molecular mechanisms for clinical applications. PeerJ 2025; 13:e19188. [PMID: 40161350 PMCID: PMC11955196 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.19188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2025] [Indexed: 04/02/2025] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNA sequences that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. The miR-99 family, which is highly evolutionarily conserved, comprises three homologs: miR-99a, miR-99b, and miR-100. Its members are under-expressed in most cancerous tissues, suggesting their cancer-repressing properties in multiple cancers; however, in some contexts, they also promote malignant lesion progression. MiR-99 family members target numerous genes involved in various tumor-related processes such as tumorigenesis, proliferation, cell-cycle regulation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. We review the recent research on this family, summarize its implications in cancer, and explore its potential as a biomarker and cancer therapeutic target. This review contributes to the clinical translation of the miR-99 family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyuan Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, ChangChun, Jilin, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, ChangChun, Jilin, China
| | - Mingxi Li
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, ChangChun, Jilin, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, ChangChun, Jilin, China
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24
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Cao A, Zhao R, Chen C, Wu C, Zhang Y, Huang C, Zhu B. Circulating tsRNAs serve as potential biomarkers for predicting postoperative delirium in elderly patients receiving lower extremity orthopedic surgery. Front Psychiatry 2025; 16:1522984. [PMID: 40206643 PMCID: PMC11980442 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1522984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Postoperative delirium (POD) is a serious neuropsychiatric complication in elderly surgical patients, yet its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in neurological disorders. We investigated whether specific tsRNAs could serve as predictive biomarkers for POD. Methods This study conducted a prospective case-control study of 158 elderly patients (≥60 years) undergoing orthopedic surgery. Plasma samples were collected preoperatively and on postoperative day 3.tsRNA expression profiles were analyzed using RNA sequencing and validated by RT-qPCR. Propensity score matching was performed to balance demographic and clinical variables. The predictive value of candidate tsRNAs was assessed using ROC analysis, and their potential functions were explored through bioinformatic analyses. Results Among 128 non-POD and 30 POD patients, two tsRNAs (Other-14: 31-tRNA-Gly-CCC-3 and Other-39: 73-tRNA-Arg-TCG-5) showed significantly elevated preoperative levels in POD patients (p<0.001).ROC analysis revealed strong predictive performance (AUC=0.868 and 0.956, respectively).These differences persisted in the propensity-matched cohort (29 pairs).Bioinformatic analyses indicated enrichment in pathways related to neurotransmission, inflammation, and metabolism. Conclusion This study identified novel tsRNA biomarkers that robustly predict POD risk and provide insights into its molecular pathogenesis. These findings may facilitate early risk stratification and preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angyang Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chunqu Chen
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Department of imaging, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Can Wu
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Department of Clinical laboratory, Jinhua Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinhua, China
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Changshun Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Binbin Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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25
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Carvajal-Patiño JG, Mallet V, Becerra D, Niño Vasquez LF, Oliver C, Waldispühl J. RNAmigos2: accelerated structure-based RNA virtual screening with deep graph learning. Nat Commun 2025; 16:2799. [PMID: 40118849 PMCID: PMC11928640 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57852-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2025] [Indexed: 03/24/2025] Open
Abstract
RNAs are a vast reservoir of untapped drug targets. Structure-based virtual screening (VS) identifies candidate molecules by leveraging binding site information, traditionally using molecular docking simulations. However, docking struggles to scale with large compound libraries and RNA targets. Machine learning offers a solution but remains underdeveloped for RNA due to limited data and practical evaluations. We introduce a data-driven VS pipeline tailored for RNA, utilizing coarse-grained 3D modeling, synthetic data augmentation, and RNA-specific self-supervision. Our model achieves a 10,000x speedup over docking while ranking active compounds in the top 2.8% on structurally distinct test sets. It is robust to binding site variations and successfully screens unseen RNA riboswitches in a 20,000-compound in-vitro microarray, with a mean enrichment factor of 2.93 at 1%. This marks the first experimentally validated success of structure-based deep learning for RNA VS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan G Carvajal-Patiño
- School of Computer Science, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá - Facultad de Ingeniería - Depto. de Ingeniería de Sistemas e Industrial, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Vincent Mallet
- LIX, Ecole Polytechnique, IP, Paris, France
- Mines Paris, PSL Research University, CBIO-Center of Computational Biology, Paris, France
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
- INSERM, Paris, France
| | - David Becerra
- School of Computer Science, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá - Facultad de Ingeniería - Depto. de Ingeniería de Sistemas e Industrial, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luis Fernando Niño Vasquez
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá - Facultad de Ingeniería - Depto. de Ingeniería de Sistemas e Industrial, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carlos Oliver
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany.
- Center for AI in Protein Dynamics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Jérôme Waldispühl
- School of Computer Science, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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26
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Wei Y, Wen Z, Xue Q, Wang L, Chen H, Shi L, Wan L, Li L, Li H, Hao W, Zhang S, Wong KW, Yu X, Song Y. A panel of six immune-related mRNAs as biomarkers for tuberculosis diagnosis. Front Genet 2025; 16:1544007. [PMID: 40182927 PMCID: PMC11965592 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2025.1544007] [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: 12/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2025] [Indexed: 04/05/2025] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to screen common immunological markers of lung tissues and blood for diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB). Methods Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmRs) and mRNAs (DEGs) were obtained by whole-transcriptome sequencing profiles on 18F-FDG PET/CT high and low metabolic active regions in lung tissues of nine TB patients. Common miRNAs were screened by intersecting with DEmRs, four miRNA GEO datasets, and their target mRNAs were predicted through the miRTarbase and Tarbase databases. Then these mRNAs were intersected with DEGs, mRNAs from blood samples and immune-related genes, to construct a miRNA-mRNA interaction network, and the hub genes were identified by Cytoscape. The relationship between immune infiltration and hub genes were evaluated using Cibersort. Finally, a diagnostic model based on Lasso regression analysis was established and validated by qRT-PCR. Results Five common miRNAs were obtained in both blood and tissues. Six immune-related mRNAs (NEDD4, PLTP, RNASEL, SEMA7A, TAPBP, and THBS1) were screened out. A diagnostic model was established and validated in the blood samples of 30 pairs (TB/health volunteers). The AUC for the 6-mRNA combination was 0.79. Conclusion We screened six mRNAs as a combination for diagnosing tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Wei
- School of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zilu Wen
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinghua Xue
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Laiyi Wan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Leilei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongwei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wentao Hao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shulin Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ka-Wing Wong
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoli Yu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanzheng Song
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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27
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Chatterjee T, Mandal S, Ray S, Johnson-Buck A, Walter NG. A unifying model for microRNA-guided silencing of messenger RNAs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2025:2025.03.16.643529. [PMID: 40166176 PMCID: PMC11956936 DOI: 10.1101/2025.03.16.643529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2025]
Abstract
Silencing by the miRNA-guided RNA induced silencing complex (miRISC) is dependent on Ago2-chaperoned base pairing between the miRNA 5' seed (5'S) and a complementary sequence in the 3' untranslated region of an mRNA. Prevailing mechanistic understanding posits that initial 5'S pairing can further allow functional base pair expansion into the 3' non-seed (3'NS), while functionally distinct non-canonical pairing was reported between only the 3'NS and the mRNA coding sequence. We developed single-molecule kinetics through equilibrium Poisson sampling (SiMKEPS) to measure highly precise binding and dissociation rate constants of varying-length target sequences to 5'S and 3'NS in a paradigmatic miRISC isolated from human cells, revealing distinct stable states of miRISC with mutually exclusive 5'S and 3'NS pairing. Our data suggest conformational rearrangements of the Ago2-bound miRNA that regulate alternative 5'S- and 3'NS-driven target recognition. The resulting model reconciles previously disparate observations and deepens our acumen for successfully marshaling RNA silencing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay Chatterjee
- Single Molecule Analysis Group and Center for RNA Biomedicine, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States
| | - Shankar Mandal
- Single Molecule Analysis Group and Center for RNA Biomedicine, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States
| | - Sujay Ray
- Single Molecule Analysis Group and Center for RNA Biomedicine, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States
| | - Alexander Johnson-Buck
- Single Molecule Analysis Group and Center for RNA Biomedicine, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States
| | - Nils G Walter
- Single Molecule Analysis Group and Center for RNA Biomedicine, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States
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28
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Liu M, Wang L, Liu Z, Liu D, Li T, Ding L, Zeng S, Wang Z, Wang J, Zhang F, Zhang J, Zhang L, Li M, Liu G, Wang X, Zheng M. MiR-222-3p loaded stem cell nanovesicles repair myocardial ischemia damage via inhibiting mitochondrial oxidative stress. Life Sci 2025; 365:123447. [PMID: 39922425 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2025.123447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2025] [Accepted: 02/04/2025] [Indexed: 02/10/2025]
Abstract
AIMS Mitochondrial oxidative stress (MOS) is a key contributor to poor cardiac function and a major driver of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). Our previous research demonstrated that stem cell-derived nanovesicles (NVs) enhanced cardiac function following ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We constructed and characterized miR-222-3p-loaded NVs. MATERIALS AND METHODS An in vitro hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) model was established using H9C2 cardiomyocytes. Mitochondrial oxidative respiratory function was assessed using Seahorse XF technology, while mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) levels were quantified via flow cytometry. Additional assessments included mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) status, mitochondrial membrane potential, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) integrity. An in vivo H/R model was developed using C57BL/6 mice. The therapeutic effects of NVs on MOS reduction and cardiac function improvement were evaluated through Masson's staining, immunofluorescence, echocardiography, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT). KEY FINDINGS RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) confirmed that miR-222-3p directly targets cyp1a1. Overexpression of miR-222-3p or knockdown of cyp1a1 significantly improved mitochondrial activity in cardiomyocytes and conferred protection against I/R injury. Conversely, overexpression of cyp1a1 abrogated the protective effects of miR-222-3p. In vivo, NV treatment enhanced cardiac function, reduced MOS, and improved mitochondrial respiratory capacity in MIRI model mice. NV treatment, via miR-222-3p-mediated suppression of cyp1a1, mitigates MOS, enhances mitochondrial respiratory function, and improves cardiac outcomes in MIRI models. SIGNIFICANCE These findings provide a foundational basis for the clinical translation of NV-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Le Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Heart and Metabolism, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Processing Technology Innovation Center of Hebei Province, School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, China; The First Affilfated Hospital of Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050011, China
| | - Dongyue Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Tianshuo Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Lini Ding
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Shasha Zeng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zi Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jiaqiu Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine Clinical Research Center, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine Clinical Research Center, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Hebei Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Meng Li
- College of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Development and Evaluation, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei International Joint Research Center for Structural Heart Disease, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China.
| | - Xianyun Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Injury Repair Mechanism Study, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China.
| | - Mingqi Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the First Hospital of HeBei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Heart and Metabolism, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei Province, China.
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Contaldi C, D’Aniello C, Panico D, Zito A, Calabrò P, Di Lorenzo E, Golino P, Montesarchio V. Cancer-Therapy-Related Cardiac Dysfunction: Latest Advances in Prevention and Treatment. Life (Basel) 2025; 15:471. [PMID: 40141815 PMCID: PMC11944213 DOI: 10.3390/life15030471] [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: 01/07/2025] [Revised: 02/19/2025] [Accepted: 03/13/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025] Open
Abstract
The increasing efficacy of cancer therapies has significantly improved survival rates, but it has also highlighted the prevalence of cancer-therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). This review provides a comprehensive overview of the identification, monitoring, and management of CTRCD, a condition resulting from several treatments, such as anthracyclines, HER2-targeted therapies, target therapies, and radiotherapy. The paper includes a discussion of the mechanisms of CTRCD associated with various cancer treatments. Early detection through serum biomarkers and advanced imaging techniques is crucial for effective monitoring and risk stratification. Preventive strategies include pharmacological interventions such as ACE inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, and statins. Additionally, novel agents like sacubitril/valsartan, sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors, and vericiguat show promise in managing left ventricular dysfunction. Lifestyle modifications, including structured exercise programs and optimized nutritional strategies, further contribute to cardioprotection. The latest treatments for both asymptomatic and symptomatic CTRCD across its various stages are also discussed. Emerging technologies, including genomics, artificial intelligence, novel biomarkers, and gene therapy, are paving the way for personalized approaches to CTRCD prevention and treatment. These advancements hold great promise for improving long-term outcomes in cancer patients by minimizing cardiovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Contaldi
- Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine D’Aniello
- Division of Medical Oncology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Panico
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Zito
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Emilio Di Lorenzo
- Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Golino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy
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30
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Nissen PH, Pedersen OB. Unlocking the Potential of MicroRNA Expression: Biomarkers for Platelet Reactivity and Coronary Artery Disease. Semin Thromb Hemost 2025. [PMID: 40074010 DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1805041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2025]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with platelet reactivity playing a central role in its pathogenesis. Recent research has identified microRNAs (miRNAs; miRs) as potential biomarkers for CAD, due to their ability to regulate platelet function and reactivity. This review focuses on four key miRNAs-miR-223, miR-126, miR-21, and miR-150-known to influence platelet reactivity and their implications in CAD. miR-223, which is highly expressed in platelets, has shown associations with CAD and myocardial infarction, while miR-126 has been linked to thrombus formation and vascular health. Additionally, miR-21 and miR-150 have also emerged as important players, with roles in platelet reactivity and cardiovascular outcomes. However, despite their potential, the use of miRNAs as clinical biomarkers faces several challenges, including variability in reported results across studies. These inconsistencies often arise from differences in sample material, preanalytical conditions, and normalization strategies. Furthermore, the influence of antiplatelet therapy on miRNA expression adds another layer of complexity, making it difficult to determine whether observed changes in miRNA levels are due to disease states or therapeutic interventions. This review therefore highlights the need for standardization in miRNA research to enhance the reliability of findings. By addressing these methodological challenges, miRNAs could become powerful tools in personalized medicine, aiding in the development of tailored therapeutic strategies for CAD patients and ultimately improving clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H Nissen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Thrombosis and Haemostasis Research Group, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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31
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Askari S, Goldfinger LE. Roles of miR-223 in Platelet Function and High On-Treatment Platelet Reactivity: A Brief Report and Review. Genes (Basel) 2025; 16:312. [PMID: 40149463 PMCID: PMC11942081 DOI: 10.3390/genes16030312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2025] [Revised: 02/28/2025] [Accepted: 03/04/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platelets are highly enriched in microRNAs (miRNAs), which are genomically encoded 19-25 nucleotide non-coding RNAs that target complementary mRNAs through total or near-total base pairing. MiR-223 is among the most abundant miRNAs in human and murine platelets, but despite ongoing investigations in recent years, miR-223 roles in platelet physiology and its putative roles in high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) remain controversial, as studies showed varying findings. OBJECTIVES In the current hybrid review/report, we aim to compare studies that investigated miR-223 in platelet function and HTPR. Additionally, we briefly report our own findings on murine miR-223-deficient platelets. METHODS We have thoroughly searched the literature and found three studies that investigated the roles of miR-223 in platelet function by utilizing miR-223 global knockout mice, and three studies that explored the association between miR-223 and residual platelet reactivity by measuring miR-223 levels in platelets of patients treated with clopidogrel for cardiac artery disease. We assessed platelet function in response to different agonists and evaluated P2y12 levels in male and female miR-223-deficient platelets. RESULTS Integrin activation and α granule secretion were similar between WT and KO platelets in response to all agonists in platelets from both female and male mice, although both genotypes showed elevated thrombin response in females compared to males. CONCLUSIONS In all studies, including ours, taken together, miR-233 appears to play a modest role in platelet function and development of HTPR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lawrence E. Goldfinger
- Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
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Tomita H, Hayakawa K, Ikeda K, Tsushima H, Shinoura M, Fujishiro M, Kataoka Y, Yamaji K, Takamori K, Tamura N, Sekigawa I, Morimoto S. miR-6516-3p-mediated downregulation of the endogenous MMP-9 inhibitor RECK in mesangial cells might exacerbate lupus nephritis. Mol Med 2025; 31:84. [PMID: 40045202 PMCID: PMC11881388 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-025-01124-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2025] [Indexed: 03/09/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate biological processes by inhibiting translation and causing mRNA degradation. In this study, we identified the miRNAs involved in the development and progression of lupus nephritis (LNs) and verified their roles. METHODS Total RNA, extracted from PBMCs collected from patients with LNs before and after treatment, was used for miRNA array analysis to identify miRNAs whose expression was significantly altered. The results of this analysis were confirmed using qRT-PCR. The identified miRNAs were transfected into normal human mesangial cells (NHMCs), human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTECs), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and THP-1-derived macrophages (THP1-Mφ) to investigate their biological functions. RESULTS Three miRNAs were altered in PBMCs before and after treatment of LNs. Among these miRNAs, hsa-miR-6516-3p promoted TNF-α-induced expression of MMP-9 in NHMCs. Moreover, hsa-miR-6516-3p downregulated the expression of RECK, an endogenous inhibitor of MMP-9. However, in NHMCs, endogenous hsa-miR-6516-3p was not present in functional amounts under inflammatory environment; therefore, we performed analysis using an experimental system considering extracellular influences of mesangial cells under LNs. The expression of hsa-miR-6516-3p was increased in HUVECs under inflammatory conditions and in activated macrophages. CONCLUSIONS hsa-miR-6516-3p increases MMP9 expression by suppressing RECK, and might, thereby, exacerbate LNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tomita
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Hayakawa
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
| | - Keigo Ikeda
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan.
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Tsushima
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marina Shinoura
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Maki Fujishiro
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
| | - Yuko Kataoka
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
| | - Ken Yamaji
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Takamori
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
| | - Naoto Tamura
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Iwao Sekigawa
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinji Morimoto
- Institute for Environmental and Gender-Specific Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Tomioka Urayasu-Shi, Chiba, 279-0021, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
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Su Y, Deng K, Liu Z, Zhang Z, Liu Z, Huang Z, Gao Y, Gao K, Fan Y, Zhang Y, Wang F. m6A modified pre-miR-503-5p contributes to myogenic differentiation through the activation of mTOR pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 294:139517. [PMID: 39756749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.139517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2024] [Revised: 12/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2025] [Indexed: 01/07/2025]
Abstract
The post-transcriptional regulation of epigenetic modification is a hot topic in skeletal muscle development research. Both m6A modifications and miRNAs have been well-established as crucial regulators in skeletal muscle development. However, the interacting regulatory mechanisms between m6A modifications and miRNAs in skeletal muscle development remain unclear. In this study, miRNA sequencing analysis of goat primary myoblasts (GPMs) pre- and post-differentiation revealed that miR-503-5p was upregulated during myogenic differentiation, and its precursor was identified to contain m6A modification sites. Combined analysis of RIP, qRT-PCR and mRNA stability assay showed that Ythdf2 could recognize and bind the m6A site on pre-miR-503-5p, thereby facilitating the maturation of pre-miR-503-5p in an m6A-dependent manner. Moreover, the overexpression of miR-503-5p significantly inhibits the proliferation of GPMs, promotes myogenic differentiation, and enhances mitochondrial biogenesis while activating the mTOR pathway. However, the suppression of mTOR activity can effectively counteract the accelerated myogenic differentiation induced by miR-503-5p overexpression. Collectively, our results indicate that Ythdf2-dependent m6A modification facilitates the maturation of pre-miR-503-5p, thereby promoting skeletal muscle differentiation through the activation of the mTOR pathway. These insights lay a valuable foundation for further investigation into the complexities of skeletal muscle development and the potential implications of epigenetic regulation in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalong Su
- Sanya Research Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Kaiping Deng
- Sanya Research Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhipeng Liu
- Sanya Research Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Sanya Research Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhilin Liu
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zidi Huang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yuhao Gao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Ke Gao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yixuan Fan
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Sanya Research Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Sanya 572025, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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Zaunschirm-Strutz J, Rieder A, Tocantins C, Diniz MS, Weiss E, Hiden U. MicroRNA profiling in umbilical cord plasma: links to maternal metabolism and neonatal metabolic and inflammatory traits. J Physiol 2025; 603:1663-1680. [PMID: 40013652 PMCID: PMC11908477 DOI: 10.1113/jp287672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2025] [Indexed: 02/28/2025] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regulators of mRNA translation and play crucial roles in various physiological and pathological processes. In this study, we profiled miRNAs in umbilical cord plasma (UCP) to explore the association of neonatal circulating miRNAs with maternal metabolic parameters and neonatal anthropometric, metabolic and inflammatory characteristics in healthy pregnancies. Data and UCP samples were collected from 16 pregnancies, equally divided between normal-weight and overweight mothers and between male and female newborns. Using next-generation sequencing, we identified and quantified miRNAs in UCP, alongside the analysis of metabolic and inflammatory parameters. Our results revealed that the majority of UCP miRNAs are sensitive to maternal and neonatal characteristics, particularly maternal body mass index, gestational weight gain, placental weight, UCP leptin, UCP C-reactive protein and UCP insulin levels. Notably, we identified a strong association between the placenta-derived chromosome 19 microRNA cluster (C19MC) and placental weight, gestational weight gain, UCP insulin and neonatal weight. Likewise, the pregnancy-specific chromosome 14 microRNA cluster (C14MC) was associated with maternal body mass index and UCP leptin. Our study highlights the sensitivity of UCP miRNAs to maternal metabolic conditions, demonstrates their association with neonatal metabolic and inflammatory traits, and underscores the potential role of circulating cord blood miRNAs in fetal metabolism and development. KEY POINTS: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regulatory RNA molecules that modulate protein expression. They are present in all body fluids and umbilical cord plasma and are affected by metabolic changes. Pregnancy is a state of metabolic change in the mother, and maternal metabolism affects fetal development. We found that the composition of umbilical cord blood miRNAs is associated with maternal and neonatal metabolism. Pregnancy-specific groups of miRNAs showed particular patterns, with miRNAs encoded by a region of chromosome 14 associated with maternal body mass index and with miRNAs encoded by a specific region of chromosome 19 associated with umbilical cord plasma insulin. MicroRNAs represent a separate dimension through which maternal metabolism can influence fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Zaunschirm-Strutz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit Early Life Determinants (ELiD), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Carinthian University of Applied Science, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Anna Rieder
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Carinthian University of Applied Science, Klagenfurt, Austria
- Division of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Cardio-Metabolic Research, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Carolina Tocantins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit Early Life Determinants (ELiD), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- CNC-UC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Doctoral Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana S Diniz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit Early Life Determinants (ELiD), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- CNC-UC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Doctoral Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elisa Weiss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit Early Life Determinants (ELiD), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ursula Hiden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit Early Life Determinants (ELiD), Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Pathak J, Selvamani SB, Srivastava S, Gopal A, T C S, Ramasamy GG, Thiruvengadam V, Mohan M, Sharma A, Kumar S, Srivastava S, Jha GK, Sushil SN. miR-92a-3p regulates egg fertilization through ribogenesis in the invasive fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda. Int J Biol Macromol 2025; 295:139637. [PMID: 39788231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.139637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 12/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2025] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
Abstract
Understanding the epigenetic molecular mechanisms (EMMs) of reproduction is crucial for developing advanced and targeted control strategies for Spodoptera frugiperda. Differential expression analysis revealed 11 known miRNAs with varying expression levels, including nine upregulated and two downregulated miRNAs, in virgin females compared with males. The predictive analysis identified 426 target genes for these miRNAs, with ribogenesis highlighted as a key process in oogenesis and egg fertilization. This study also investigated the expression of miRNAs in both virgin and mated male and female S. frugiperda, with a focus on their roles in reproduction. A strong negative correlation was observed between miRNA expression levels and their target hub genes, confirming the transcriptional regulation by miRNAs. Additionally, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network identified the gene CG5033 (BOP1), as a central hub, was also predicted to be the target of miR-92a-3p in S. frugiperda, is involved in the maturation of large ribosomal RNA subunits. This study further provided experimental evidence that either the depletion of miR-92a-3p in virgin females or the knockdown of BOP1 in virgin males led to the production of infertile eggs post-mating. These findings validate the regulatory role of the miR-92a-3p - BOP1 interaction and underscore its importance in oogenesis and fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Pathak
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
| | - Selva Babu Selvamani
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
| | - Subhi Srivastava
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
| | - Ashwitha Gopal
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
| | - Suman T C
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
| | - Gandhi Gracy Ramasamy
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India.
| | - Venkatesan Thiruvengadam
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India.
| | - M Mohan
- Division of Genomic Resources, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
| | - Anu Sharma
- Centre for Agricultural Bioinformatics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistical Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Sanjeev Kumar
- Centre for Agricultural Bioinformatics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistical Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Sudhir Srivastava
- Centre for Agricultural Bioinformatics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistical Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Girish Kumar Jha
- Centre for Agricultural Bioinformatics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistical Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi 110012, India
| | - Satya N Sushil
- ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, P. Bag No: 2491, H. A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bengaluru - 560024, India
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36
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Wang F, Wang X, Odle J, Maltecca C, Lin X. Maternal Supplementation of Dietary Choline and DHA During Gestational Nutrition Restriction Alters Hepatic mRNA and miRNA Expression Patterns in Full-Term Fetal Pigs. J Nutr 2025; 155:804-816. [PMID: 39805404 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2025.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2024] [Revised: 01/03/2025] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supplementing choline and DHA to pregnant gilts modified fetal pig hepatic global DNA methylation induced by gestational malnutrition, suggesting that gene expression and regulation and its associated metabolic pathways are affected in the liver of offspring during growth and development. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the effect of maternal supplementation of choline, DHA, and their interaction on hepatic mRNA expression, miRNA regulation, and metabolic pathways in the fetal pigs born to malnourished mothers. METHODS The abundance of mRNA and miRNA was profiled in fetal liver from sows with undernutrition supplemented with choline and DHA in a 2 × 2 factorial design. The effects of choline, DHA, and their interaction on mRNA and miRNA expression were evaluated. Identification of the Biological Processes from the Gene Ontology database and miRNA Target Prediction Analysis were performed using the DAVID Functional Annotation Tool and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. The identified miRNA-mRNA pairings were validated using RT-qPCR. RESULTS In total, 144 mRNA and 1 miRNA were altered by supplementation of choline, and the alterations were associated with the inhibitions of cardiac hypertrophy signaling, IL-6 signaling, IL-3 signaling, the Th1 pathway, and the acute phase response signaling pathway. Further, 151 mRNAs and 6 miRNAs were altered by maternal supplementation DHA and were associated with inhibition of 5 inositol-related pathways, 5 immune-related pathways, and 7 other pathways and the stimulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling and RhoGDI signaling pathways. In addition, 383 mRNAs and 25 miRNAs displayed choline × DHA interactions including synergistic effects on acute phase response signaling, and antagonistic effects on tRNA splicing, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α/retinoid X receptor α activation, and sirtuin signaling, NAD signaling, and RNA polymerase I transcription pathways. Ten of the identified 20 miRNA-mRNA pairings were validated using RT-qPCR. CONCLUSIONS The supplementation of choline, DHA, or choline plus DHA to pregnant gilts modifies liver mRNA, miRNA, and pathways in fetal pigs during gestational undernutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Xiaoqiu Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Jack Odle
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Christian Maltecca
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Xi Lin
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.
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Nadukkandy AS, Blaize B, Kumar CD, Mori G, Cordani M, Kumar LD. Non-coding RNAs as mediators of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in metastatic colorectal cancers. Cell Signal 2025; 127:111605. [PMID: 39842529 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2025.111605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2024] [Revised: 01/06/2025] [Accepted: 01/12/2025] [Indexed: 01/24/2025]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, necessitating the development of innovative treatment strategies. Recent research has underscored the significant role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in CRC pathogenesis, offering new avenues for diagnosis and therapy. In this review, we delve into the intricate roles of various ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), in CRC progression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and drug resistance. We highlight the interaction of these ncRNAs with and regulation of key signaling pathways, such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, JAK-STAT, EGFR, and TGF-β, and the functional relevance of these interactions in CRC progression. Additionally, the review highlights the emerging applications of nanotechnology in enhancing the delivery and efficacy of ncRNA-based therapeutics, which could address existing challenges related to specificity and side effects. Future research directions, including advanced diagnostic tools, targeted therapeutics, strategies to overcome drug resistance, and the integration of personalized medicine approaches are discussed. Integrating nanotechnology with a deeper understanding of CRC biology offers the potential for more effective, targeted, and personalized strategies, though further research is essential to validate these approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Shigna Nadukkandy
- Cancer Biology, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad 500007, India
| | - Britny Blaize
- Cancer Biology, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad 500007, India
| | - Chethana D Kumar
- Department of Surgical ICU, Christian Medical College, IDA Scudder Road, Vellore 632004, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Giulia Mori
- Department Of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Cordani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Lekha Dinesh Kumar
- Cancer Biology, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad 500007, India.
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Chen Z, Ding H, Zhu Y, Sun S, Song Z, Zhang L, Liang C, Xu L. MicroRNA-335 inhibits invasion and metastasis of prostate cancer by inhibiting glutamine metabolism pathway. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2025; 392:100530. [PMID: 40158948 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpet.2024.100530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2024] [Accepted: 12/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2025] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs play a crucial role in regulating tumor progression and invasion. Nevertheless, the expression of miRNA-335 in prostate cancer (PCa) and its clinical significance remain unelucidated. Here, we report that miRNA-335 functions as a tumor suppressor by regulating expression of glutaminase 1 (GLS1), a key enzyme of glutamine metabolism pathway, in PCa. In this study, we show that the expression of miRNA-335 is downregulated in PCa tissues. The level of miRNA-335 is even lower in highly invasive PCa cell lines. Furthermore, enhancing the expression of miRNA-335 inhibits PCa cell migration and invasion in vitro. Additionally, we identify GLS1 as the downstream effector, governed by miRNA-335 via 3'-untranslated region, and the direct regulation is verified by dual luciferase reporter assay. MiRNA-335 interrupts glutamine catabolism by inhibiting GLS1 enzymatic activity. Overexpression of miRNA-335 markedly suppresses tumor growth of PCa in vivo. To sum up, our results indicate that miRNA-335 acts as a tumor suppressor and has an important role in restraining the metastasis of PCa cells by targeting GLS1. These discoveries indicate that miRNA-335 could serve as a new prospective therapeutic target for PCa. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: miRNA-335, a metabolism-related microRNA, is a potential therapeutic target for prostate cancer by interfering with glutaminase 1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hekang Ding
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunlong Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shuai Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhenyu Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Chaozhao Liang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Lingfan Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological and Andrological Diseases Research and Medical Transformation, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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Fanis P, Morrou M, Tomazou M, Alghol HAM, Spyrou GM, Neocleous V, Phylactou LA. Identification of puberty related miRNAs in the hypothalamus of female mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2025; 598:112468. [PMID: 39842623 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2025.112468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 01/03/2025] [Accepted: 01/20/2025] [Indexed: 01/24/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Puberty is a crucial developmental stage marked by the transition from childhood to adulthood, organized by complex hormonal signaling within the neuroendocrine system. The hypothalamus, a central region in this system, regulates pubertal functions through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, essential in puberty control, release GnRH in a pulsatile manner, initiating the production of sex hormones. Major influence in pubertal timing has been attributed to genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and nutritional status. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA molecules, have emerged as key regulators in various cellular processes by either repressing genes or activating them by inhibiting their repressors. The present study aims to investigate the involvement of miRNAs in the control of puberty. METHODS Small RNA sequencing was used to identify and compare the total population of miRNAs in the hypothalamus of female mice before, during and after puberty. Bioinformatic analysis was applied to analyse the expression profile of miRNAs with altered levels followed by pathway enrichment analysis. RESULTS Expression levels of several miRNAs were found up- or down-regulated from pre-pubertal to pubertal stage. Furthermore, monitoring the levels of these miRNAs at the post-pubertal stage revealed four expression patterns, in which pathway analysis displayed the associations of these miRNAs with developmental processes, cell cycle regulation, metabolic biosynthesis and epigenetic regulation. CONCLUSION The findings of the present study improve our understanding of the molecular pathways underlying puberty and stress the significance of miRNAs in fine-tuning gene expression within the hypothalamus during this critical developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlos Fanis
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function and Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Maria Morrou
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function and Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Marios Tomazou
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Hend Abdulgadr M Alghol
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function and Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - George M Spyrou
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Vassos Neocleous
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function and Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Leonidas A Phylactou
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Function and Therapy, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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Mohammed OA, Alghamdi M, Bahashwan E, Al Jarallah AlQahtani A, Alfaifi A, Hassan RH, Alfaifi J, Alamri MMS, Alhalafi AH, Adam MIE, BinAfif WF, Abdel-Reheim MA, Mageed SSA, S Doghish A. Emerging insights into the role of natural products and miRNAs in psoriasis: from pathophysiology to precision medicine. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2025; 398:2487-2509. [PMID: 39466441 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03528-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 10/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/30/2024]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a sustainable skin disease characterized by inflammation resulting from the interaction between immune cells and keratinocytes. Significant advancements have been achieved in studying the molecular process behind noncoding and coding genes, leading to valuable insights for clinical therapy. Nevertheless, our comprehension of this intricate ailment remains ambiguous. Natural products such as curcumin, vitamin D, omega-3, vitamin E, psoralen, gallic acid (GA), and resveratrol offer a promising alternative or adjunct therapy for psoriasis by modulating multiple pathways and exhibiting fewer side effects compared to conventional treatments. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNAs that are involved in regulating gene expression after transcription, namely by suppressing gene activity. Recent research on miRNAs has uncovered their significant significance in the development of psoriasis. In this review, we examined the latest developments in the investigation of miRNAs in psoriasis. Previous studies have revealed that imbalanced miRNAs in psoriasis have a significant impact on the processes of keratinocyte differentiation, proliferation, and the progression of inflammation. Furthermore, miRNAs exert an impact on the activity of immune cells involved in psoriasis, such as Langerhans cells, dendritic cells, and CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, we explore potential miRNA-focused treatment options for psoriasis, including the localized administration of external miRNA mimics, and miRNA inhibitors. The effectiveness of natural products and miRNAs in treating psoriasis, as well as the signaling pathways that may be involved, are summarized in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mushabab Alghamdi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad Bahashwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dermatology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - AbdulElah Al Jarallah AlQahtani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dermatology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel Alfaifi
- Department of Dermatology, Armed Forces Hospital - Southern Region, 62413, Khamis Mushait, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rania H Hassan
- Dermatology Clinic, Abbasseya Psychiatric Hospital, Abbasseya, Cairo, 11517, Egypt
| | - Jaber Alfaifi
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohannad Mohammad S Alamri
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Hassan Alhalafi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Masoud I E Adam
- Department of Medical Education and Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waad Fuad BinAfif
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, 61922, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City, 11829, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Badr City, , 11829, Egypt.
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Nasr City, 11231, Egypt.
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Yokoi K, Wang J, Yoshioka Y, Fujisawa Y, Fujimoto M, Ochiya T, Tanemura A. Novel Detection and Clinical Utility of Serum-Derived Extracellular Vesicle in Angiosarcoma. Acta Derm Venereol 2025; 105:adv40902. [PMID: 40001341 DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v105.40902] [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: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous angiosarcoma is a rare and highly aggressive skin malignancy. The aim of this study is to explore the alteration of serum-derived extracellular vesicle (EV) in angiosarcoma patients and to evaluate its clinical utility as a novel circulating biomarker. In a microarray analysis to examine the differential expression of specific EV-associated microRNAs in sera between cutaneous angiosarcoma patients and healthy controls, 73 microRNAs with significant upregulation and 100 microRNAs with significant downregulation, respectively, were identified in patients with angio-sarcoma. Among them, quantitative PCR confirmed that miR-184, miR-3925-5p, miR-3926, and miR-5703 were upregulated in sera of cutaneous angiosarcoma patients compared with those of healthy controls and melanoma patients. Additionally, these 4 microRNAs were expressed more highly in angiosarcoma cell lines compared with normal human endothelial cell lines and were prone to elevate along with disease progression. Furthermore, a gene analysis predicted that the target gene set of microRNAs might affect the regulation of TP53 via the epigenetic regulation of MECP2. Taken together, these 4 extracellular vesicle-associated microRNAs in circulation serve as a promising liquid biomarker to identify angiosarcoma patients and trace disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Yokoi
- Department of Dermatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yusuke Yoshioka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Fujisawa
- Department of Dermatology, Tsukuba University, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Manabu Fujimoto
- Department of Dermatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tanemura
- Department of Dermatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
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Cuinat C, Pan J, Comelli EM. Host-dependent alteration of the gut microbiota: the role of luminal microRNAs. MICROBIOME RESEARCH REPORTS 2025; 4:15. [PMID: 40207285 PMCID: PMC11977366 DOI: 10.20517/mrr.2024.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2025] [Accepted: 02/10/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, non-coding RNAs that play gene expression regulatory roles in eukaryotes. MiRNAs are also released in body fluids, and in the intestine, they are found in the lumen and feces. Here, together with exogenous dietary-derived miRNAs, they constitute the fecal miRNome. Several miRNAs were identified in the feces of healthy adults, including, as shown here, core miRNAs hsa-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-1246. These miRNAs are important for intestinal homeostasis. Recent evidence suggests that miRNAs may interact with gut bacteria. This represents a new avenue to understand host-bacteria crosstalk in the gut and its role in health and disease. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current knowledge on fecal miRNAs, their representation across individuals, and their effects on the gut microbiota. It also discusses existing evidence on potential mechanisms of uptake and interaction with bacterial genomes, drawing from knowledge of prokaryotic small RNAs (sRNAs) regulation of gene expression. Finally, we review in silico and experimental approaches for profiling miRNA-mRNA interactions in bacterial species, highlighting challenges in target validation. This work emphasizes the need for further research into host miRNA-bacterial interactions to better understand their regulatory roles in the gut ecosystem and support their exploitation for disease prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Cuinat
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 1A8, Canada
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Jiali Pan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 1A8, Canada
- Authors contributed equally
| | - Elena M. Comelli
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 1A8, Canada
- Joannah and Brian Lawson Centre for Child Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 1A8, Canada
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Sobecka-Giel A, Ostrowska K, Golusinski W, Suchorska WM, Masternak MM, Golusinski P. The microRNA-6510 as a potential tumor suppressor in head and neck cancer. Sci Rep 2025; 15:5830. [PMID: 39966442 PMCID: PMC11836324 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-86796-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2025] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, with approximately 830,000 new cases and 430,000 deaths reported annually. Due to their heterogeneity, these neoplasms differ in their clinical course and response to the therapy. Therefore, it has become imperative to identify specific biological molecules that can potentially establish novel prognostic markers or targets for molecular therapy of HNSCC. MicroRNAs are a class of short, non-coding RNAs that function as post-transcriptional regulators of genes expression. They have been shown to be directly involved in oncogenesis, acting as tumor suppressors or oncogenes. Our previous study demonstrated that miRNA hsa-miR-6510-3p is significantly downregulated in tumor tissue compared to histologically normal tissue from HNSCC patients. Its significant downregulation in tumor tissue is associated with lower chances for recovery and patient's survival. This study aimed to determine the biological role of miR-6510-3p in HNSCC pathogenesis and its impact on biological processes occurring in cancer cells such as cell cycle, cell proliferation, migration or induction of cell death. We have also examined the impact of the miR-6510-3p on expression of cancer stem cell phenotype markers as well as on sensitivity of HNSCC cells to ionizing radiation. We observed that transfection of HNSCC cells with hsa-miR-6510-3p causes the cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and is associated with a decrease of cell proliferation, migration and colony-forming ability of cancer cells. We have also demonstrated that hsa-miR-6510-3p induces cell death, increases the sensitivity of HNSCC cells to ionizing radiation and causes a loss of the stemness properties responsible for the occurrence of metastases and relapses of the disease. These results indicated the importance of miR-6510-3p as a marker and a driver of HNSCC disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Sobecka-Giel
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 61-701, Poland.
- Radiobiology Lab, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, 61-866, Poland.
| | - Kamila Ostrowska
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 61-701, Poland
- Radiobiology Lab, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, 61-866, Poland
| | - Wojciech Golusinski
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 61-701, Poland
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, 61-866, Poland
| | - Wiktoria M Suchorska
- Radiobiology Lab, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, 61-866, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 61-866, Poland
| | - Michal M Masternak
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 61-701, Poland
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
| | - Pawel Golusinski
- Department of Otolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, 65-417, Poland.
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Yin C, Liufu C, Ye S, Zhu T, Jiang J, Wang M, Zhou L, Yao L, Wang Y, Shi B. Tumor-derived exosomal KPNA2 activates fibroblasts and interacts with KIFC1 to promote bladder cancer progression, a process inhibited by miR-26b-5p. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2025; 30:20. [PMID: 39956902 PMCID: PMC11830183 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-025-00687-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2025] [Indexed: 02/18/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have illuminated the complexities of treating advanced bladder cancer (BCa), underscoring the importance of comprehending its molecular mechanisms for creating novel therapies. While the role of Karyopherin a2 (KPNA2) in promoting BCa growth is established, the precise mechanism remains elusive. METHODS To investigate the regulatory role of KPNA2 in BCa, we employed a comprehensive approach integrating clinical case data and bioinformatics analysis to evaluate the expression of KPNA2 in BCa tissues. Mechanisms promoting cancer by KPNA2 were examined using both in vivo and in vitro models. RESULTS Our research reveals that miR-26b-5p acts as an anticancer factor by targeting and inhibiting KPNA2 expression. Furthermore, we have observed that the interaction between KPNA2 and Kinesin Family Member C1 (KIFC1) facilitates the transition of BCa cells into the G2/M phase, thereby promoting tumor advancement via activation of the Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)- Protein Kinase B (AKT) pathway. Importantly, this investigation is the first to identify KPNA2 expression in exosomes originating from BCa tissues. Plasma exosomes from patients with BCa exhibited notably increased levels of KPNA2 compared with healthy controls, suggesting KPNA2 as a potential new tumor indicator. Additionally, KPNA2 from BCa cells triggered the conversion of fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which secreted elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), contributing to a tumor-supporting environment. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that KPNA2 is a key gene that promotes BCa progression, can potentially be a novel tumor marker, and may serve as a new therapeutic target for BCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Yin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, No. 3002, Sungangxi Road, Shenzhen, 518035, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Cen Liufu
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Institute of Urology, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Shuai Ye
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, No. 3002, Sungangxi Road, Shenzhen, 518035, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Institute of Urology, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Jiahao Jiang
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Shenzhen, 518035, China
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Mingxia Wang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Institute of Urology, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Liqun Zhou
- Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, No. 8 Xishiku St., Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male) Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, No. 8 Xishiku St., Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Lin Yao
- Department of Urology, Peking University First Hospital, No. 8 Xishiku St., Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, People's Republic of China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urogenital Diseases (Male) Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment Center, No. 8 Xishiku St., Xicheng District, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Institute of Urology, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, 518036, China.
| | - Bentao Shi
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, No. 3002, Sungangxi Road, Shenzhen, 518035, People's Republic of China.
- Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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45
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Teo LTK, Juantuah-Kusi N, Subramanian G, Sampath P. Psoriasis Treatments: Emerging Roles and Future Prospects of MicroRNAs. Noncoding RNA 2025; 11:16. [PMID: 39997616 PMCID: PMC11858470 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna11010016] [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: 12/19/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2025] [Accepted: 02/04/2025] [Indexed: 02/26/2025] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis, a widespread and chronic inflammatory skin disorder, is marked by its persistence and the lack of a definitive cure. The pathogenesis of psoriasis is increasingly understood, with ongoing research highlighting the intricate interplay of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors. Recent advancements have illuminated the pivotal role of microRNAs in orchestrating complex processes in psoriasis and other hyperproliferative skin diseases. This narrative review highlights the emerging significance of miRNAs as key regulators in psoriasis pathogenesis and examines their potential as therapeutic targets. We discuss current treatment approaches and the promising future of miRNAs as next-generation therapeutic agents for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tian Keane Teo
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Sir Ernst Chain Building, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Nerissa Juantuah-Kusi
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Gowtham Subramanian
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore (SRIS), 11 Mandalay Road #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Prabha Sampath
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
- Skin Research Institute of Singapore (SRIS), 11 Mandalay Road #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, Singapore 308232, Singapore
- Program in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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Ye J, Boileau RM, Parchem RJ, Judson-Torres RL, Blelloch R. The miR-290 and miR-302 clusters are essential for reprogramming of fibroblasts to induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cells 2025; 43:sxae080. [PMID: 40037390 PMCID: PMC11879289 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxae080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2024] [Accepted: 10/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2025]
Abstract
The miR-290 and miR-302 clusters of microRNAs are highly expressed in naïve and primed pluripotent stem cells, respectively. Ectopic expression of the embryonic stem cell (ESC)-specific cell cycle regulating family of microRNAs arising from these two clusters dramatically enhances the reprogramming of both mouse and human somatic cells to induced pluripotency. Here, we used genetic knockouts to dissect the requirement for the miR-290 and miR-302 clusters during the reprogramming of mouse fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with retrovirally introduced Oct4, Sox2, and Klf4. Knockout of either cluster alone did not negatively impact the efficiency of reprogramming. Resulting cells appeared identical to their ESC microRNA cluster knockout counterparts. In contrast, the combined loss of both clusters blocked the formation of iPSCs. While rare double knockout clones could be isolated, they showed a dramatically reduced proliferation rate, a persistent inability to fully silence the exogenously introduced pluripotency factors, and a transcriptome distinct from individual miR-290 or miR-302 mutant ESC and iPSCs. Taken together, our data show that miR-290 and miR-302 are essential yet interchangeable in reprogramming to the induced pluripotent state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ye
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Urology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Ryan M Boileau
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Urology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Ronald J Parchem
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Robert L Judson-Torres
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
- Department of Dermatology, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
| | - Robert Blelloch
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Urology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
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Vairappan B, Mukherjee V, Subramanian SB, Ram AK, Ravikumar TS. Nimbolide attenuates hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating miRNAs 21, 145 and 221 and their target gene expression. Gene 2025; 937:149126. [PMID: 39645097 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.149126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 11/13/2024] [Accepted: 11/25/2024] [Indexed: 12/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are becoming progressively emerging in cancer research from an etiologic and curative point of view. Several miRNAs act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors, which are dysregulated in numerous cancers. Our previous studies have established that nimbolide (a bioactive terpenoid from neem) attenuated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through various mechanisms in mice. Here, we aimed to elucidate the effect of nimbolide in modulating specific miRNAs (21, 145, and 221) and their target genes involved in promoting inflammation and cancer cell proliferation in HCC mice. METHODS Following the induction of HCC in mice at 28 weeks, nimbolide (6 mg/kg b.wt.) was administered orally for four consecutive weeks. RESULTS We found significantly increased hepatic expression of miR-21a-3p, miR-21a-5p, miR-221-5p and miR-221-3p whilst significantly decreased miR-145a-5p in HCC mice. Nimbolide treatment to HCC mice substantially reduced the miR-21a-5p and miR-221-3p and improved miR-145a-5p gene expression. Our in-silico study also supports these findings. Moreover, hepatic tight junction (TJ) associated proteins such as claudins 1&5 mRNA and protein were increased considerably, whilst significantly decreased hepatic claudin 2 mRNA and protein expression noted in HCC mice. Nimbolide also regulates cadherins, ROCK 1, MMP 9, cyclin D1, CDK4, NF κB and TNFα mRNA expression in HCC mice. CONCLUSION We identified for the first time that nibmolide treatment to HCC mice significantly attenuated hepatic miRNAs 21 & 221 expressions and sheltered miR-145 expression. These findings were further confirmed with in-silico studies. Moreover, nibmolide treatment in HCC mice regulates miRNA target genes involved in cancer cell proliferation and inflammation, thereby attenuating HCC progression in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balasubramaniyan Vairappan
- Liver Diseases Research Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Dhanvantari Nagar, Puducherry 605006, India.
| | - Victor Mukherjee
- Liver Diseases Research Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Dhanvantari Nagar, Puducherry 605006, India
| | - Siva Bala Subramanian
- Liver Diseases Research Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Dhanvantari Nagar, Puducherry 605006, India
| | - Amit Kumar Ram
- Liver Diseases Research Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Dhanvantari Nagar, Puducherry 605006, India
| | - T S Ravikumar
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Yu M, He W, Belsham DD. MicroRNA-34a-5p regulates agouti-related peptide via krüppel-like factor 4 and is disrupted by bisphenol A in hypothalamic neurons. Gene 2025; 937:149129. [PMID: 39617277 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.149129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2024] [Revised: 10/22/2024] [Accepted: 11/26/2024] [Indexed: 12/08/2024]
Abstract
Obesity is a complex disease marked by increased adiposity and impaired metabolic function. While diet and lifestyle are primary causes, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as bisphenol A (BPA), significantly contribute to obesity. BPA, found in plastic consumer products, accumulates in the hypothalamus and dysregulates energy homeostasis by disrupting the neuropeptide Y (NPY)/agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of how BPA disrupts neuropeptide expression remains unclear. We hypothesized that microRNAs (miRNAs), which regulate approximately 60% of the human protein-coding genome and are crucial for hypothalamic energy regulation, may mediate the effects of BPA on Agrp. Using the TargetScanMouse 8.0 and DIANA microT bioinformatics tools, we identified miR-501-5p as a potential miRNA that directly regulates Agrp and the miR-34 family as miRNAs that indirectly regulate Agrp through its transcription factor krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4). We found that in an immortalized NPY/AgRP-expressing cell line, mHypoE-41, miR-501-5p unexpectedly upregulated Agrp, while miR-34a-5p reduced Klf4 and Agrp mRNA levels. Serum starvation reduced miR-34a-5p levels and elevated Agrp mRNA levels, suggesting a potential role in AgRP regulation. Inhibiting the miR-34a-5p interaction with the Klf4 3'UTR using a specific target site blocker prevented the downregulation of both Klf4 and Agrp, suggesting miR-34a-5p alters Agrp mRNA levels via regulation of KLF4. BPA treatment increased Agrp and Klf4 expression while simultaneously decreasing miR-34a-5p levels, indicating miR-34a-5p may play a role in BPA-mediated dysregulation of Agrp. Overall, this study highlights indirect miRNA-based regulation of Agrp, which can also be dysregulated by obesogens, such as BPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minyi Yu
- Departments of Physiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wenyuan He
- Departments of Physiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Denise D Belsham
- Departments of Physiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Departments of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Liu F, Ai F, Tang A, Yang Z, Li Z, Liu S. Macrophage-Derived Exosomes Promoted the Development and Stemness of Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Related Colorectal Cancer via nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1-Mediated miRNA-34a-5p/phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes 15 Axis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2025; 31:524-538. [PMID: 39425913 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izae212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is closely associated with the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) due to the chronic inflammatory response. Macrophages play critical roles in regulating the microenvironment to facilitate tumor progression. Exosomes are key modulators for the communication between macrophages and tumor cells. The mechanism of macrophage-derived exosomes in IBD-related CRC development remains unclear. METHODS The macrophages were isolated using fluorescence activating cell sorter (FACS). The RNA and protein expressions in exosomes and CRC cells were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot assays, respectively. CRC cell development was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, BrdU staining, Transwell assay, and spheroid formation assay. The level of stemness was determined by detecting the proportion of leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5 (LGR5)-positive CRC cells and the expression of LGR5, CD133, and CD44. Molecular interaction experiments were done using luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. Xenograft tumor model in vivo and immunohistochemistry were used to observe the pathological changes. RESULTS Macrophage-derived exosomes from IBD-related CRC tissues were enriched with nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) and able to promote the progression and stemness of CRC both in vitro and in vivo. The exosomal NEAT1 could sponge miR-34a-5p, leading to the restoration of PEA15 expression in CRC cells and promoting the development of CRC. Inhibition of NEAT1 in exosomes could effectivity inhibit the tumor growth in the CRC xenograft model. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide novel insights into how macrophages affect CRC development and highlight exosomal NEAT1 as a therapeutic target for CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Feiyan Ai
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Anliu Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Zhenyu Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoqi Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Shaojun Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
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Berg SZ, Berg J. Microbes, macrophages, and melanin: a unifying theory of disease as exemplified by cancer. Front Immunol 2025; 15:1493978. [PMID: 39981299 PMCID: PMC11840190 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1493978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 12/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2025] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that cancer mostly arises from random spontaneous mutations triggered by environmental factors. Our theory challenges the idea of the random somatic mutation theory (SMT). The SMT does not fit well with Charles Darwin's theory of evolution in that the same relatively few mutations would occur so frequently and that these mutations would lead to death rather than survival of the fittest. However, it would fit well under the theory of evolution, if we were to look at it from the vantage point of pathogens and their supporting microbial communities colonizing humans and mutating host cells for their own benefit, as it does give them an evolutionary advantage and they are capable of selecting genes to mutate and of inserting their own DNA or RNA into hosts. In this article, we provide evidence that tumors are actually complex microbial communities composed of various microorganisms living within biofilms encapsulated by a hard matrix; that these microorganisms are what cause the genetic mutations seen in cancer and control angiogenesis; that these pathogens spread by hiding in tumor cells and M2 or M2-like macrophages and other phagocytic immune cells and traveling inside them to distant sites camouflaged by platelets, which they also reprogram, and prepare the distant site for metastasis; that risk factors for cancer are sources of energy that pathogens are able to utilize; and that, in accordance with our previous unifying theory of disease, pathogens utilize melanin for energy for building and sustaining tumors and metastasis. We propose a paradigm shift in our understanding of what cancer is, and, thereby, a different trajectory for avenues of treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacie Z. Berg
- Department of Translational Biology, William Edwards LLC, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jonathan Berg
- Department of Translational Biology, William Edwards LLC, Baltimore, MD, United States
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