Tranilast induces MiR-200c expression through blockade of RelA/p65 activity in leiomyoma smooth muscle cells

Tsai-Der Chuang1, Amit Rehan1, Omid Khorram1

  • 1Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harbor-University of California Los Angeles Medical Center, Torrance, California.

Abstract

Insights

Tranilast, an inflammation inhibitor, increases miR-200c in leiomyoma cells by blocking the NF-κB pathway. This finding suggests anti-inflammatory drugs may treat uterine fibroids.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular biology
  • Cell biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Uterine leiomyomas are common benign tumors.
  • Inflammation plays a role in leiomyoma pathogenesis.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in leiomyoma development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the mechanism by which tranilast induces miR-200c expression in leiomyoma smooth muscle cells (LSMCs).

Main Methods:

  • Experimental study using LSMCs and myometrium smooth muscle cells (MSMCs).
  • Tranilast treatment and blockade of RelA/p65 (NF-κB pathway component) using Bay 117082 and small interfering RNA.
  • Analysis of miR-200c expression, RelA/p65 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and promoter binding via ChIP assay.
  • Measurement of IL8 and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 expression.

Main Results:

  • Tranilast dose-dependently induced miR-200c in LSMCs and MSMCs, with a greater effect in LSMCs.
  • Inhibition of IκB phosphorylation and RelA/p65 knockdown further enhanced miR-200c induction.
  • Tranilast inhibited RelA/p65 activity and nuclear translocation, reducing its binding to the miR-200c promoter.
  • Tranilast inhibited IL8 expression, and miR-200c induction partially mediated this effect and the inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinase 2.

Conclusions:

  • Tranilast induces miR-200c in LSMCs via transcriptional inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway.
  • These findings underscore the role of inflammation in leiomyoma and suggest anti-inflammatory drugs as potential therapeutics.

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