NKp46 Receptor-Mediated Interferon-γ Production by Natural Killer Cells Increases Fibronectin 1 to Alter Tumor Architecture and Control Metastasis.

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells, and their presence within human tumors correlates with better prognosis. However, the mechanisms by which NK cells control tumors in vivo are unclear. Here, we used reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) imaging in humans and in mice to visualize tumor architecture in vivo. We demonstrated that signaling via the NK cell receptor NKp46 (human) and Ncr1 (mouse) induced interferon-γ (IFN-γ) secretion from intratumoral NK cells. NKp46- and Ncr1-mediated IFN-γ production led to the increased expression of the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin 1 (FN1) in the tumors, which altered primary tumor architecture and resulted in decreased metastases formation. Injection of IFN-γ into tumor-bearing mice or transgenic overexpression of Ncr1 in NK cells in mice resulted in decreased metastasis formation. Thus, we have defined a mechanism of NK cell-mediated control of metastases in vivo that may help develop NK cell-dependent cancer therapies.

Exosomal LRG1 promotes non-small cell lung cancer proliferation and metastasis by binding FN1 protein.

Leucine-rich α2-glycoprotein-1 (LRG1) is overexpressed in various cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its role in NSCLC cell metastasis is not well understood. In this study, NSCLC cell exosomes were analyzed using different techniques, and the impact of exosomal LRG1 on NSCLC cell behavior was investigated through various assays both in vitro and in vivo. The study revealed that LRG1, found abundantly in NSCLC cells and exosomes, enhanced cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Exosomal LRG1 was shown to promote NSCLC cell metastasis in animal models. Additionally, the interaction between LRG1 and fibronectin 1 (FN1) in the cytoplasm was identified. It was observed that FN1 could counteract the effects of LRG1 knockdown on cell regulation induced by exosomes derived from NSCLC cells. Overall, the findings suggest that targeting exosomal LRG1 or FN1 may hold therapeutic potential for treating NSCLC.

Expanding the spectrum of tyrosine kinase fusions in calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasms: Identification of a novel PDGFRA::USP8 gene fusion.

Calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasms represent a distinct, and recently recognized, spectrum of tumors. To date most cases have been reported to be characterized by FN1 gene fusions involving multiple potential tyrosine kinase partners. Following incidental identification of a tumor morphologically corresponding to calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasm, but with a PDGFRA::USP8 gene fusion, we undertook a retrospective review to identify and characterize additional such cases. A total of four tumors were identified. Each was multilobulated and composed of polygonal-epithelioid-stellate cells with a background of chondroid matrix containing distinctive patterns of calcification. Targeted RNA sequencing revealed an identical PDGFRA (exon 22)::USP8 (exon 5) gene fusion in each case. Subsequent immunohistochemical staining confirmed the presence of PDGFRα overexpression. In summary, we report a series of four tumors within the morphologic spectrum of calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasms. In contrast to prior reports, these tumors harbored a novel PDGFRA::USP8 gene fusion, rather than FN1 rearrangement. Our findings expand the molecular diversity of these neoplasms, and suggest they are united through activation of protein kinases.

Circular RNA hsa_circ_0050386 suppresses non-small cell lung cancer progression via regulating the SRSF3/FN1 axis.

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% of all cases. Circular RNAs(circRNA) play crucial roles in regulating the progression of lung cancer. Despite the identification of a large number of circRNAs, their expression patterns, functions, and mechanisms of action in NSCLC development remain unclear.This study aims to investigate the transcriptional expressions, functions, and potential mechanisms of circRNA hsa_circ_0050386 in NSCLC. METHODS: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was utilized for the analysis of hsa_circ_0050386 expression. Cell proliferation was detected using the IncuCyte Live Cell Analysis System and clone formation assays. Migration and invasion of NSCLC cells were evaluated through Transwell assays. Flow cytometry was performed to assay cell cycle and apoptosis. Western blot was used to investigate protein expression. Protein binding analysis was conducted by employing pull-down assays, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and mass spectrometry. The role of hsa_circ_0050386 in vivo was evaluated through the use of a xenograft model. RESULTS: The study discovered that hsa_circ_0050386 displayed lower expression levels in NSCLC tissues when compared to adjacent normal tissues. Patients exhibiting lower levels of hsa_circ_0050386 expression exhibited an inverse correlation with the Clinical Stage, T-stage, and M-stage of NSCLC. Functionally, hsa_circ_0050386 suppressed the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells both in vitro and in vivo. A comprehensive examination exposed the interaction between hsa_circ_0050386 and RNA binding protein Serine and arginine-rich splicing factor 3 (SRSF3), resulting in the down-regulation of Fibronectin 1 (FN1) expression, which inhibits the progression of NSCLC. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that hsa_circ_0050386 suppresses the malignant biological behavior of NSCLC cells by down-regulating the expression of FN1, and may serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.

Superficial acral calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasm harboring an FN1::FGFR2 fusion and review of the literature.

Calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasm is a recently recognized bone and soft tissue entity primarily found in the extremities and the temporomandibular joint. This neoplasm is typically driven by the fusion of the FN1 gene with a kinase. In this case report, we provide a detailed account of a rare superficial calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasm located on the left big toe, characterized by an FN1::FGFR2 fusion. The tumor exhibited a peripheral collarette and consisted of large intradermal histiocytoid to epithelioid cells with no mitotic activity. These cells displayed fine chromatin and abundant pale eosinophilic cytoplasm, forming a swirling syncytium. They were interspersed with localized areas of glassy chondromyxoid matrix containing randomly mineralized calcific material and isolated osteoclast-like giant cells. RNA sequencing confirmed the presence of an FN1 (exon 29)::FGFR2 (exon 7) gene fusion. Our report emphasizes the importance for dermatopathologists to consider this entity when evaluating superficial lesions displaying mesenchymal, chondroid, and calcified attributes.

miR-34b-3p-mediated regulation of STC2 and FN1 enhances chemosensitivity and inhibits proliferation in cervical cancer.

Dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression in cancer is a significant factor contributing to the progression of chemoresistance. The objective of this study is to explore the underlying mechanisms by which miR-34b-3p regulates chemoresistance in cervical cancer (CC). Previous findings have demonstrated low expression levels of miR-34b-3p in both CC chemoresistant cells and tissues. In this study, we initially characterize the behavior of SiHa/DDP cells which are CC cells resistant to the chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin (DDP). Subsequently, miR-34b-3p mimics are transfected into SiHa/DDP cells. It is observed that overexpression of miR-34b-3p substantially inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of SiHa/DDP cells and also enhances their sensitivity to DDP-induced cell death. Quantitative RT-PCR and western blot analysis further reveal elevated expression levels of STC2 and FN1 in SiHa/DDP cells, contrary to the expression pattern of miR-34b-3p. Moreover, STC2 and FN1 contribute to DDP resistance, proliferation, migration, invasion, and decreased apoptosis in CC cells. Through dual-luciferase assay analysis, we confirm that STC2 and FN1 are direct targets of miR-34b-3p in CC. Finally, rescue experiments demonstrate that overexpression of either STC2 or FN1 can partially reverse the inhibitory effects of miR-34b-3p overexpression on chemoresistance, proliferation, migration and invasion in CC cells. In conclusion, our findings support the role of miR-34b-3p as a tumor suppressor in CC. This study indicates that targeting the miR-34b-3p/STC2 or FN1 axis has potential therapeutic implications for overcoming chemoresistance in CC patients.

Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation of Differential Genes and Pathways in Bone Nonunions.

Non-union fractures pose a significant clinical challenge, often leading to prolonged pain and disability. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying non-union fractures is crucial for developing effective therapeutic interventions. This study integrates bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation to unravel key genes and pathways associated with non-union fractures. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between non-union and fracture healing tissues using bioinformatics techniques. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were employed to elucidate the biological processes and pathways involved. Common DEGs were identified, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. Fibronectin-1 (FN1), Thrombospondin-1 (THBS1), and Biglycan (BGN) were pinpointed as critical target genes for non-union fracture treatment. Experimental validation involved alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Alizarin Red staining to confirm osteogenic differentiation. Our analysis revealed significant alterations in pathways related to cell behavior, tissue regeneration, wound healing, infection, and immune responses in non-union fracture tissues. FN1, THBS1, and BGN were identified as key genes, with their upregulation indicating potential disruptions in the bone remodeling process. Experimental validation confirmed the induction of osteogenic differentiation. The study provides comprehensive insights into the molecular mechanisms of non-union fractures, emphasizing the pivotal roles of FN1, THBS1, and BGN in extracellular matrix dynamics and bone regeneration. The findings highlight potential therapeutic targets and pathways for further investigation. Future research should explore interactions between these genes, validate results using in vivo fracture models, and develop tailored treatment strategies for non-union fractures, promising significant advances in clinical management.

uPAR (PLAUR) Marks Two Intra-Tumoral Subtypes of Glioblastoma: Insights from Single-Cell RNA Sequencing.

Urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) encoded by the PLAUR gene is known as a clinical marker for cell invasiveness in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). It is additionally implicated in various processes, including angiogenesis and inflammation within the tumor microenvironment. However, there has not been a comprehensive study that depicts the overall functions and molecular cooperators of PLAUR with respect to intra-tumoral subtypes of GBM. Using single-cell RNA sequencing data from 37 GBM patients, we identified PLAUR as a marker gene for two distinct subtypes in GBM. One subtype is featured by inflammatory activities and the other subtype is marked by ECM remodeling processes. Using the whole-transcriptome data from single cells, we are able to uncover the molecular cooperators of PLAUR for both subtypes without presuming biological pathways. Two protein networks comprise the molecular context of PLAUR, with each of the two subtypes characterized by a different dominant network. We concluded that targeting PLAUR directly influences the mechanisms represented by these two protein networks, regardless of the subtype of the targeted cell.

The Effect of HMGB1 and HMGB2 on Transcriptional Regulation Differs in Neuroendocrine and Adenocarcinoma Models of Prostate Cancer.

Human high-mobility group-B (HMGB) proteins regulate gene expression in prostate cancer (PCa), a leading cause of oncological death in men. Their role in aggressive PCa cancers, which do not respond to hormonal treatment, was analyzed. The effects of HMGB1 and HMGB2 silencing upon the expression of genes previously related to PCa were studied in the PCa cell line PC-3 (selected as a small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma, SCNC, PCa model not responding to hormonal treatment). A total of 72% of genes analyzed, using pre-designed primer panels, were affected. HMGB1 behaved mostly as a repressor, but HMGB2 as an activator. Changes in SERPINE1, CDK1, ZWINT, and FN1 expression were validated using qRT-PCR after HMGB1 silencing or overexpression in PC-3 and LNCaP (selected as an adenocarcinoma model of PCa responding to hormonal treatment) cell lines. Similarly, the regulatory role of HMGB2 upon SERPINE1, ZWINT, FN1, IGFPB3, and TYMS expression was validated, finding differences between cell lines. The correlation between the expression of HMGB1, HMGB2, and their targets was analyzed in PCa patient samples and also in PCa subgroups, classified as neuroendocrine positive or negative, in public databases. These results allow a better understanding of the role of HMGB proteins in PCa and contribute to find specific biomarkers for aggressive PCa.

Prediction of the Aggressive Clinical Course of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Based on Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Molecular Testing.

Molecular genetic events are among the numerous factors affecting the clinical course of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Recent studies have demonstrated that aberrant expression of miRNA, as well as different thyroid-related genes, correlate with the aggressive clinical course of PTC and unfavorable treatment outcomes, which opens up new avenues for using them in the personalization of the treatment strategy for patients with PTC. In the present work, our goal was to assess the applicability of molecular markers in the preoperative diagnosis of aggressive variants of papillary thyroid cancer. The molecular genetic profile (expression levels of 34 different markers and BRAF mutations) was studied for 108 cytology specimens collected by fine-needle aspiration biopsy in patients with PTC having different clinical manifestations. Statistically significant differences with adjustment for multiple comparisons (p < 0.0015) for clinically aggressive variants of PTC were obtained for four markers: miRNA-146b, miRNA-221, fibronectin 1 (FN1), and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) genes. A weak statistical correlation (0.0015 < p < 0.05) was observed for miRNA-31, -375, -551b, -148b, -125b, mtDNA, CITED1, TPO, HMGA2, CLU, NIS, SERPINA1, TFF3, and TMPRSS4. The recurrence risk of papillary thyroid carcinoma can be preoperatively predicted using miRNA-221, FN1, and CDKN2A genes.

Identification and functional characterization of imbalanced osteoarthritis-associated fibronectin splice variants.

OBJECTIVE: To identify FN1 transcripts associated with OA pathophysiology and investigate the downstream effects of modulating FN1 expression and relative transcript ratio. METHODS: FN1 transcriptomic data was obtained from our previously assessed RNA-seq dataset of lesioned and preserved OA cartilage samples from the Research osteoArthritis Articular Cartilage (RAAK) study. Differential transcript expression analysis was performed on all 27 FN1 transcripts annotated in the Ensembl database. Human primary chondrocytes were transduced with lentiviral particles containing short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting full-length FN1 transcripts or non-targeting shRNA. Subsequently, matrix deposition was induced in our 3D in vitro neo-cartilage model. Effects of changes in the FN1 transcript ratio on sulphated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) deposition were investigated by Alcian blue staining and dimethylmethylene blue assay. Moreover, gene expression levels of 17 cartilage-relevant markers were determined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: We identified 16 FN1 transcripts differentially expressed between lesioned and preserved cartilage. FN1-208, encoding migration-stimulating factor, was the most significantly differentially expressed protein coding transcript. Downregulation of full-length FN1 and a concomitant increased FN1-208 ratio resulted in decreased sGAG deposition as well as decreased ACAN and COL2A1 and increased ADAMTS-5, ITGB1 and ITGB5 gene expression levels. CONCLUSION: We show that full-length FN1 downregulation and concomitant relative FN1-208 upregulation was unbeneficial for deposition of cartilage matrix, likely due to decreased availability of the classical RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) integrin-binding site of fibronectin.

Integrated analysis of circulating and tissue proteomes reveals that fibronectin 1 is a potential biomarker in papillary thyroid cancer.

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most frequent subtype of thyroid cancer, but 20% of cases are indeterminate (i.e., cannot be accurately diagnosed) based on preoperative cytology, which might lead to surgical removal of a normal thyroid gland. To address this concern, we performed an in-depth analysis of the serum proteomes of 26 PTC patients and 23 healthy controls using antibody microarrays and data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA-MS). We identified a total of 1091 serum proteins spanning 10-12 orders of magnitude. 166 differentially expressed proteins were identified that participate in complement activation, coagulation cascades, and platelet degranulation pathways. Furthermore, the analysis of serum proteomes before and after surgery indicated that the expression of proteins such as lactate dehydrogenase A and olfactory receptor family 52 subfamily B member 4, which participate in fibrin clot formation and extracellular matrix-receptor interaction pathways, were changed. Further analysis of the proteomes of PTC and neighboring tissues revealed integrin-mediated pathways with possible crosstalk between the tissue and circulating compartments. Among these cross-talk proteins, circulating fibronectin 1 (FN1), gelsolin (GSN) and UDP-glucose 4-epimerase (GALE) were indicated as promising biomarkers for PTC identification and validated in an independent cohort. In differentiating between patients with benign nodules or PTC, FN1 produced the best ELISA result (sensitivity = 96.89%, specificity = 91.67%). Overall, our results present proteomic landscapes of PTC before and after surgery as well as the crosstalk between tissue and the circulatory system, which is valuable to understand PTC pathology and improve PTC diagnostics in the future.

TMT quantitative proteomics reveals key proteins relevant to microRNA-1-mediated regulation in osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the second-commonest arthritis, but pathogenic and regulatory mechanisms underlying OA remain incompletely understood. Here, we aimed to identify the mechanisms associated with microRNA-1 (miR-1) treatment of OA in rodent OA models using a proteomic approach. First, N = 18 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats underwent sham surgery (n = 6) or ACL transection (n = 12), followed at an interval of one week by randomization of the ACL transection group to intra-articular administration of either 50 µL placebo (control group) or miR-1 agomir, a mimic of endogenous miR-1 (experimental group). After allowing for eight weeks of remodeling, articular cartilage tissue was harvested and immunohistochemically stained for the presence of MMP-13. Second, N = 30 Col2a1-cre-ERT2 /GFPf1/fl -RFP-miR-1 transgenic mice were randomized to intra-articular administration of either placebo (control group, N = 15) or tamoxifen, an inducer of miR-1 expression (experimental group, N = 15), before undergoing surgical disruption of the medial meniscus (DMM) after an interval of five days. After allowing for eight weeks of remodeling, articular cartilage tissue was harvested and underwent differential proteomic analysis. Specifically, tandem mass tagging (TMT) quantitative proteomic analysis was employed to identify inter-group differentially-expressed proteins (DEP), and selected DEPs were validated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) technology. Immunohistochemically-detected MMP-13 expression was significantly lower in the experimental rat group, and proteomic analyses of mouse tissue homogenate demonstrated that of 3526 identified proteins, 345 were differentially expressed (relative up- and down-regulation) in the experimental group. Proteins Fn1, P4ha1, P4ha2, Acan, F2, Col3a1, Fga, Rps29, Rpl34, and Fgg were the *top ten most-connected proteins, implying that miR-1 may regulate an expression network involving these proteins. Of these ten proteins, three were selected for further validation by RT-qPCR: the transcript of Fn1, known to be associated with OA, exhibited relative upregulation in the experimental group, whereas the transcripts of P4ha1 and Acan exhibited relative downregulation. These proteins may thus represent key miR-1 targets during OA-regulatory mechanisms, and may provide additional insights regarding therapeutic mechanisms of miR-1 in context of OA.

Pediatric inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the bladder with ALK-FN1 fusion successfully treated by alectinib.

An inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a mesenchymal neoplasm characterized by the proliferation of myofibroblasts and inflammatory cell infiltration. Although radical resection is the only established treatment strategy for IMT, it can cause functional disorders when vital organs are affected. We describe a case of pediatric IMT of the bladder with FN1-ALK (fibronectin 1-anaplastic lymphoma kinase) fusion. Radical resection might lead to urinary disturbance due to the large tumor size at diagnosis. However, the tumor was successfully treated with alectinib, a second-generation ALK inhibitor, followed by transurethral resection of the bladder tumor without any complications.

Silencing circ_0080425 alleviates high-glucose-induced endothelial cell dysfunction in diabetic nephropathy by targeting miR-140-3p/FN1 axis.

BACKGROUND: Hsa_circ_0080425 (circ_0080425) is newly identified to correlate with the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, its role and mechanism in DN process is not very clear. METHODS: Cell counting kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, scratch wound assay, and western blotting were performed to measure endothelial cell dysfunction. Expression of circ_0080425, microRNA (miR)-140-3p and fibronectin 1 (FN1) were determined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting. The direct interaction was confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS: High-glucose (HG) treatment could induce inhibition of cell proliferation, cell cycle entrance and wound healing rate in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HRGEC), and enhancement of apoptosis rate. Circ_0080425 expression was upregulated by HG, and exhausting circ_0080425 could attenuate HG-induced above effects in HRGEC. MiR-140-3p was sponged by circ_0080425, and its inhibitor reversed the regulation of circ_0080425 knockdown on HG-induced HRGEC injury. FN1 was targeted by miR-140-3p, and its overexpression also restored the inhibitory effect of miR-140-3p on HC-induced HRGEC injury. CONCLUSION: Circ_0080425 expression might contribute to HG-induced endothelial cell injury, and circ_0080425/miR-140-3p/FN1 axis was a potential therapeutic approach to interfere DN process.

Fibronectin glomerulopathy in a kidney allograft biopsy.

BACKGROUND: Fibronectin glomerulopathy is a rare genetic nephropathy with only a few cases of post-transplant recurrence being reported previously. We highlight a case that was initially misdiagnosed and emphasize the importance of full immunofluorescence and electron microscopy evaluation in allograft biopsies. CASE PRESENTATION: A 36-year-old male with a history of end-stage kidney disease secondary to biopsy-proven type 1 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) status-post living unrelated donor kidney transplant 12 years prior, presented with increasing creatinine and proteinuria. Biopsy was performed and was consistent with fibronectin glomerulopathy. Subsequent genetic testing revealed an FN1 mutation, the primary gene associated with this condition. CONCLUSIONS: Full histologic evaluation of the allograft biopsy corrected the diagnosis and additionally suggested that the patient's mother, who had expired in her 30s and had received a diagnosis of type 1 MPGN on autopsy, likely also had fibronectin glomerulopathy, enabling appropriate genetic counseling for the family.

Long non-coding RNA ATB expedites non-small cell lung cancer progression by the miR-200b/fibronectin 1 axis.

BACKGROUND: Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) ATB belongs to an active modulator in multiple cancers, but its expression along with potential underlying non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is obscure. Our study aimed to investigate the role and potential mechanism of LncRNA ATB in NSCLC. METHODS: LncRNA ATB expression in NSCLC tissues and cell lines was detected by qRT-PCR. Effects of LncRNA ATB on NSCLC cell proliferation, migration and invasion were assessed by MTS, colony formation and transwell assays. The connection among LncRNA ATB, miR-200b and fibronectin 1 (FN1) was determined by bioformatics prediction and luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS: In this research, upregulation of LncRNA ATB was discovered in NSCLC tissue samples and cell lines. LncRNA ATB was positively related to advanced tumor phase as well as lymph node metastasis. Cell function assays reflected LncRNA ATB expedited NSCLC cells proliferation, migration and invasion. LncRNA ATB promoted fibronectin 1 (FN1) expression via inhibiting miR-200b. Furthermore, LncRNA ATB depletion suppressed NSCLC cells proliferation, migration and invasion, while miR-200b inhibitor or pcDNA-FN1 rescued these effects. CONCLUSION: In summary, our outcomes elucidated that LncRNA ATB/miR-200b axis expedited NSCLC cells proliferation, migration and invasion by up-regulating FN1.

Osteoblasts and Fibroblasts Interaction with a Porcine Acellular Dermal Matrix Membrane.

The use of collagen membranes has remained the gold standard in GTR/GBR. In this study, the features and the biological activities of an acellular porcine dermis collagen matrix membrane applicable during dental surgery were investigated, and also by applying hydration with NaCl. Thus, two tested membranes were distinguished, the H-Membrane and Membrane, compared to the control cell culture plastic. The characterization was performed by SEM and histological analyses. In contrast, the biocompatibility was investigated on HGF and HOB cells at 3, 7, and 14 days by MTT for proliferation study; by SEM and histology for cell interaction study; and by RT-PCR for function-related genes study. In HOBs seeded on membranes, mineralization functions by ALP assay and Alizarin Red staining were also investigated. Results indicated that the tested membranes, especially when hydrated, can promote the proliferation and attachment of cells at each time. Furthermore, membranes significantly increased ALP and mineralization activities in HOBs as well as the osteoblastic-related genes ALP and OCN. Similarly, membranes significantly increased ECM-related and MMP8 gene expression in HGFs. In conclusion, the tested acellular porcine dermis collagen matrix membrane, mainly when it is hydrated, behaved as a suitable microenvironment for oral cells.

Identification and prognostic analysis of biomarkers to predict the progression of pancreatic cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a malignancy with a poor prognosis and high mortality. Surgical resection is the only "curative" treatment. However, only a minority of patients with PC can obtain surgery. Improving the overall survival (OS) rate of patients with PC is still a major challenge. Molecular biomarkers are a significant approach for diagnostic and predictive use in PCs. Several prediction models have been developed for patients newly diagnosed with PC that is operable or patients with advanced and metastatic PC; however, these models require further validation. Therefore, precise biomarkers are urgently required to increase the efficiency of predicting a disease-free survival (DFS), OS, and sensitivity to immunotherapy in PC patients and to improve the prognosis of PC. METHODS: In the present study, we first evaluated the highly and selectively expressed targets in PC, using the GeoMxTM Digital Spatial Profiler (DSP) and then, we analyzed the roles of these targets in PCs using TCGA database. RESULTS: LAMB3, FN1, KRT17, KRT19, and ANXA1 were defined as the top five upregulated targets in PC compared with paracancer. The TCGA database results confirmed the expression pattern of LAMB3, FN1, KRT17, KRT19, and ANXA1 in PCs. Significantly, LAMB3, FN1, KRT19, and ANXA1 but not KRT17 can be considered as biomarkers for survival analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model, and risk model analysis. Furthermore, in combination, LAMB3, FN1, KRT19, and ANXA1 predict the DFS and, in combination, LAMB3, KRT19, and ANXA1 predict the OS. Immunotherapy is significant for PCs that are inoperable. The immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) analysis indicated that higher expressions of FN1 or ANXA1 are correlated with lower ICB response. In contrast, there are no significant differences in the ICB response between high and low expression of LAMB3 and KRT19. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, LAMB3, FN1, KRT19, and ANXA1 are good predictors of PC prognosis. Furthermore, FN1 and ANXA1 can be predictors of immunotherapy in PCs.

LINC02381 aggravates breast cancer through the miR-1271-5p/FN1 axis to activate PI3K/AKT pathway.

Emerging investigations have demonstrated that lncRNAs are key crucial modulators in cancer. In this study, we investigated the role of LINC02381 in breast cancer (BC). Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction measured the LINC02381 level in BC tissues and cells. Colony formation, EdU staining, wound healing and Transwell experiments examined the impact of LINC02381 depletion on BC cell phenotypes. Relationship among miR-1271-5p, LINC02381, and FN1 was tested through applying RIP, luciferase reporter, and RNA pull-down assays. We found that LINC02381 expression was elevated in BC. Functionally, LINC02381 knockdown hampered BC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. LINC02381 overexpression accelerated tumor formation in vivo. Mechanistically, LINC02381 acted as a ceRNA to increase FN1 via decoying miR-1271-5p. Additionally, LINC02381 activated PI3K/AKT pathway by upregulating FN1. Rescue assays indicated that FN1 upregulation or PI3K/AKT activation rescued the LINC02381 knockdown-mediated inhibition on malignant phenotypes of BC cells. Overall, LINC02381 exerts carcinogenic effects in BC by the miR-1271-5p/FN1 axis to activate PI3K/AKT pathway.