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In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: October 21, 2022
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Profiling and Bioinformatic Analyses Indicate Differential circRNA and miRNA/isomiR Expression and Interactions
Li Guo1, Liang Zheng2, Yang Zhao3
1Department of Bioinformatics, School of Geographic and Biologic Information, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China.
Biomed Research International
|April 24, 2018
Summary
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) show abnormal expression in esophageal cancer. Their complex interactions, including isomiRs, may drive disease progression, offering new research avenues.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Oncology
Background:
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of noncoding RNAs involved in biological processes.
- circRNAs can function as microRNA (miRNA) sponges, influencing gene regulation.
- Esophageal cancer involves complex molecular changes, including noncoding RNA dysregulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression profiles and interactions of miRNAs/isomiRs and circRNAs in male esophageal cancer patients.
- To explore the potential roles of circRNA-miRNA interactions in esophageal cancer pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of miRNA and circRNA expression in esophageal cancer tissues.
- Prediction of circRNA-miRNA sponge interactions.
- Evaluation of isomiR involvement in these interactions.
Main Results:
- Identified deregulated miRNA products (miR-#-5p and miR-#-3p) with consistent abnormal expression.
- Predicted circRNAs acting as miRNA sponges, often with opposing expression patterns.
- Highlighted the significant increase in predicted interactions when considering isomiRs due to sequence similarity.
Conclusions:
- Esophageal cancer exhibits complex ncRNA cross-talk involving circRNAs, miRNAs, and isomiRs.
- IsomiRs significantly expand the potential interactions between circRNAs and miRNAs.
- Findings provide a basis for further research into ncRNA roles in human diseases.
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