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Clinicopathological Analysis of miRNA Expression in Breast Cancer Tissues by Using miRNA In Situ Hybridization
Published on: June 7, 2016
Distinct microRNA expression pattern in breast cancer cells following anti-neoplastic treatment: A systematic review
D Qatrun Nada1, M L Masniza1, N Abdullah2
1Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences I, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
Abstract:
Breast cancer remains a significant cause of mortality in females worldwide, despite advances in technology and treatment. MicroRNA expression in breast cancer is studied both as potential biomarkers and for therapeutic purposes. Accumulated evidence revealed microRNA profile of various types of cancer cells following antineoplastic treatment. The progression of research in this area provides better understanding on the anti-cancer mechanism of various natural compounds and drugs specifically on the microRNA regulation. Hence, we aim to systematically review differentially expressed microRNA in MCF-7, a commonly studied breast cancer cell line, after treatment with anti-neoplastic agents. Relevant keywords were used to screen for research articles that reported on the differentially expressed microRNAs in experimental models of MCF-7 before and after anti-neoplastic treatment. Target genes of microRNAs were identified from MiRTarbase and further in silico functional analysis of the target genes were performed using DAVID bioinformatic resources. Two upregulated microRNAs (mir-200c and let-7d) and 3 downregulated microRNAs (mir-27a, mir-27b and mir-203) were identified by highest number of studies. Three microRNAs (let-7a, mir-23a and mir-7) showed inconsistent direction of expression. Genes functional analysis revealed the regulatory effect of microRNA on genes related to angiogenesis, hypoxia, P53, FoxO and PI3K-AKT signalling. Clusters of genes associated to the pathway of angiogenesis, cancers, cell proliferation and apoptosis were noted through protein-protein interaction analysis. MicroRNAs, especially the mir-200c, let-7d, mir-27a, mir-27b and mir-203 from this review could be further validated experimentally to serve as molecular target or biomarkers for anti-neoplastic therapy.
Insights
This review identifies key microRNAs (miRNAs) in breast cancer cells (MCF-7) affected by anti-cancer drugs. Specific miRNAs like mir-200c and let-7d show potential as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for breast cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Breast cancer is a leading cause of female mortality globally, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in breast cancer.
- Understanding miRNA expression changes post-antineoplastic treatment is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
Approach:
- Systematic review of studies reporting differentially expressed miRNAs in MCF-7 breast cancer cells after anti-neoplastic agent treatment.
- Identification of miRNA target genes using the MiRTarbase database.
- In silico functional analysis of target genes via DAVID bioinformatics resources.
Key Points:
- Two consistently upregulated miRNAs (mir-200c, let-7d) and three downregulated miRNAs (mir-27a, mir-27b, mir-203) were identified in MCF-7 cells.
- Functional analysis revealed miRNA regulation of genes involved in angiogenesis, hypoxia, P53, FoxO, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways.
- Protein-protein interaction analysis highlighted gene clusters related to angiogenesis, cancer, cell proliferation, and apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- Specific miRNAs, including mir-200c, let-7d, mir-27a, mir-27b, and mir-203, demonstrate potential as molecular targets or biomarkers for breast cancer therapy.
- Further experimental validation of these miRNAs is recommended for anti-neoplastic drug development.
- This review provides insights into miRNA-mediated anti-cancer mechanisms.
