lncRNA-SNHG7 promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion and inhibits apoptosis of lung cancer cells by enhancing the FAIM2 expression

Establishment and validation of a cuproptosis-related lncRNA signature that predicts prognosis and potential targeted therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Cuproptosis is a recently identified form of programmed cell death and could be a new direction for tumour therapy, and it has important clinical implications. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can intervene in diverse biological processes and have a decisive role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, how cuproptosis-related lncRNAs (CRLs) participate in regulating HCC has yet to be recognised. This study aimed to establish and validate a prognostic signature of CRLs and to analyse their clinical value in HCC patients.

METHODS

To analyse the function of CRLs in the prognosis of HCC, RNA sequencing data, mutation data, and clinically relevant data were collected from the Cancer Genome Atlas Database (TCGA). Then, TCGA cohort was randomly divided into training and test sets. The training set was utilized to define prognostic signature of CRLs using bioinformatics methods. Subsequently, we verified the accuracy of this prognostic signature in the test set. Finally, we performed immune-related analysis, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) prediction, gene set enrichment analysis, and tumour mutational burden (TMB) analysis.

RESULTS

We established a prognostic signature for the CRLs (SNHG4, AC026412.3, AL590705.3, and CDKN2A-DT). This signature-based risk group displayed an accurate predictive ability for the survival time of patients with HCC. We observed discrepancies in immune cells, immune function, the expression level of genes related to immune checkpoints, and TMB in high- and low-risk groups.

CONCLUSION

This CRLs prognostic signature could predict clinical outcomes in patients with HCC as well as the efficacy of targeted and therapy immunotherapy.

Modulation of long noncoding RNAs by polyphenols as a novel potential therapeutic approach in lung cancer: A comprehensive review

Lung cancer stands as a formidable global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. Polyphenols, bioactive compounds synthesized by plants, have garnered attention for their diverse health benefits, particularly in combating various cancers, including lung cancer. The advent of whole-genome and transcriptome sequencing technologies has illuminated the pivotal roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), operating at epigenetic, transcriptional, and posttranscriptional levels, in cancer progression. This review comprehensively explores the impact of polyphenols on both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs in lung cancer, elucidating on their intricate regulatory mechanisms. The comprehensive examination extends to the potential synergies when combining polyphenols with conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Recognizing the heterogeneity of lung cancer subtypes, the review emphasizes the need for the integration of nanotechnology for optimized polyphenol delivery and personalized therapeutic approaches. In conclusion, we collect the latest research, offering a holistic overview of the evolving landscape of polyphenol-mediated modulation of lncRNAs in lung cancer therapy. The integration of polyphenols and lncRNAs into multidimensional treatment strategies holds promise for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and navigating the challenges associated with lung cancer treatment.

Role of non-coding RNAs mediated pyroptosis on cancer therapy: a review

INTRODUCTION

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which are incapable of encoding proteins, are involved in the progression of numerous tumors by altering transcriptional and post-transcriptional processing. Recent studies have revealed prominent features of ncRNAs in pyroptosis, a type of non-apoptotic programmed cellular destruction linked to an inflammatory reaction. Drug resistance has arisen gradually as a result of anti-apoptotic proteins, therefore strategies based on pyroptotic cell death have attracted increasing attention. We have observed that ncRNAs may exert significant influence on cancer therapy, chemotherapy, radio- therapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, by regulating pyroptosis.

AREAS COVERED

Literatures were searched (December 2023) for studies on cancer therapy for ncRNAs-mediated pyroptotic cell death.

EXPERT OPINION

The most universal mechanical strategy for ncRNAs to regulate target genes is competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNA). Besides, certain ncRNAs could directly interact with proteins and modulate downstream genes to induce pyroptosis, resulting in tumor growth or inhibition. In this review, we aim to display that ncRNAs, predominantly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), could function as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis and produce new insights into anti-cancer strategies modulated by pyroptosis for clinical applications.

LncRNA RP11-58O9.2 predicts poor prognosis and promotes progression of non-small cell lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aimed to investigate the novel biomarker, lncRNA RP11-58O9.2, in patients with NSCLC.

METHODS

RP11-58O9.2 expression in NSCLC cells and tissues was detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Patient survival was analyzed in relation to RP11-58O9.2 expression levels. RP11-58O9.2 expression was knocked down and endogenous expression was verified in two NSCLC cell lines. Cell proliferation was then assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony-formation assays, and cell invasion and migration were assessed by Transwell and wound-healing assays, respectively. In vivo experiments were performed in mice, and the combination of RP11-58O9.2 and miR-6749-3p was predicted by miRanda.

RESULTS

RP11-58O9.2 was highly expressed in NSCLC cell lines and tissues, and was associated with advanced stage, lymphatic metastasis, and differentiation group. High RP11-58O9.2 levels were also associated with shorter survival. RP11-58O9.2 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and migration of lung cancer cells, and tumor growth in mouse xenografts in vivo. RP11-58O9.2 may target and regulate miR-6749-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

LncRNA RP11-58O9.2 is associated with NSCLC prognosis and promotes lung cancer progression. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms and the regulatory association between RP11-58O9.2 and miR-6749-3p.

LncRNA TM4SF19-AS1 exacerbates cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma via enhancing LAMC1 expression

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a heterogeneous and aggressive tumor with high mortality and unfavorable prognosis. Numerous long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been confirmed to exert pivotal parts in cancers. Nevertheless, the functions of most lncRNAs in HNSCC need deeper exploration. Our present research tried to clarify the biological role of TM4SF19 antisense RNA 1 (TM4SF19-AS1) and investigate its regulatory mechanism in HNSCC. RT-qPCR analysis was done to test TM4SF19-AS1 expression and identify the up-regulation of TM4SF19-AS1 in HNSCC cells. Loss-of-function assays were also involved, and the data implied that TM4SF19-AS1 knockdown hampered the proliferation, migration, invasion, along with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of HNSCC cells. In vivo assays revealed TM4SF19-AS1 depletion restrained HNSCC tumor growth. Additionally, mechanism experiments were implemented to uncover the underlying regulatory mechanism of TM4SF19-AS1 in HNSCC cells. It turned out that TM4SF19-AS1 modulated laminin subunit gamma 1 (LAMC1) expression via sequestering microRNA-153-3p (miR-153-3p) and recruiting heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (HNRNPC) protein. Rescue assays confirmed that TM4SF19-AS1 contributed to HNSCC cell malignant behaviors via up-regulating LAMC1. To summarize, TM4SF19-AS1 played an oncogenic role in HNSCC cells, signifying TM4SF19-AS1 may have the potential to be used as a novel molecular target for HNSCC diagnosis.

Downregulation of lncRNA NEAT1 Relieves Caerulein-Induced Cell Apoptosis and Inflammatory Injury in AR42J Cells Through Sponging miR-365a-3p in Acute Pancreatitis

Mounting evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs exert a critical regulatory role in acute pancreatitis. The present study aimed to explore the role of lncRNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) in acute pancreatitis (AP) that was induced by caerulein in rat pancreatic acinar cells (AR42J). The potential target sites of lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-365a-3p were predicted using starBase and were confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assay. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to assess lncRNA NEAT1 and miR-365a-3p expression levels in AP induced by caerulein. Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess AR42J cell viability. Western blotting was performed to evaluate the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were detected by ELISA. The results of the dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-365a-3p could bind to NEAT1. LncRNA NEAT1 was upregulated in AR42J cells treated with 10 nmol/l caerulein, and miR-365a-3p was expressed at low levels in an AP model. Overexpression of miR-365a-3p suppressed the apoptosis and inflammatory response of AR42J cells induced by caerulein. Importantly, inhibition of lncRNA NEAT1 decreased apoptosis and inflammation in caerulein-treated AR42J cells, while these effects were reverted upon co-transfection with a miR-365a-3p inhibitor. In conclusion, lncRNA NEAT1 was involved in AP progression by sponging miR-365a-3p and may thus be a novel target for treating patients with AP.

The crucial roles of long noncoding RNA SNHGs in lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors with growing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Several treatments are used to manage lung cancer, including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as molecular-targeted therapy. However, the current measures are still far from satisfactory. Therefore, the current research should focus on exploring the molecular mechanism and then finding an effective treatment. Interestingly, we and others have embarked on a line of investigations focused on the mechanism of lung cancer. Specifically, lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene has been shown to be associated with biological characteristics and therapeutic resistance of lung cancer. In addition, small nucleolar RNA host genes may be used as diagnostic biomarker in the future. Herein, we will provide a brief review demonstrating the importance of small nucleolar RNA host genes in lung cancer, especially non-small cell lung cancer. Although lncRNA has shown a crucial role in tumor-related research, a large number of studies are needed to validate its clinical application in the future.

Antiapoptotic Protein FAIM2 is targeted by miR-3202, and DUX4 via TRIM21, leading to cell death and defective myogenesis

Inappropriate expression of DUX4, a transcription factor that induces cell death at high levels of expression and impairs myoblast differentiation at low levels of expression, leads to the development of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), however, the pathological mechanisms downstream of DUX4 responsible for muscle loss are poorly defined. We performed a screen of 1972 miR inhibitors for their ability to interfere with DUX4-induced cell death of human immortalized myoblasts. The most potent hit identified by the screen, miR-3202, is known to target the antiapoptotic protein FAIM2. Inhibition of miR-3202 led to the upregulation of FAIM2, and remarkably, expression of DUX4 led to reduced cellular levels of FAIM2. We show that the E3 ubiquitin ligase and DUX4 target gene, TRIM21, is responsible for FAIM2 degradation downstream of DUX4. Human myoblasts overexpressing FAIM2 showed increased resistance to DUX4-induced cell death, whereas in wild-type cells FAIM2 knockdown resulted in increased apoptosis and failure to differentiate into myotubes. The necessity of FAIM2 for myogenic differentiation of WT cells led us to test the effect of FAIM2 overexpression on the impairment of myogenesis by DUX4. Strikingly, FAIM2 overexpression rescued the myogenic differentiation defect caused by low-level expression of DUX4. These data implicate FAIM2 levels, modulated by DUX4 through TRIM21, as an important factor mediating the pathogenicity of DUX4, both in terms of cell viability and myogenic differentiation, and thereby open a new avenue of investigation towards drug targets in FSHD.

Long Non-coding RNA HOXA11-AS Facilitates Proliferation of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells via Targeting the Let-7c-5p/IGF2BP1 Axis

Objective: This study investigates the relationship between the HOXA11-AS/let-7c-5p/IGF2BP1 regulatory axis and lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods: The expression levels of HOXA11-AS, let-7c-5p, and IGF2BP1 were evaluated in LUAD tissue and cell lines. Subcellular fractionation detection assay was adopted to verify the HOXA11-AS distribution in LUAD cells. The interaction relationship between let-7c-5p and HOXA11-AS or IGF2BP1 was validated by dual-luciferase reporter detection. In RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation assay, the binding relationship between HOXA11-AS and let-7c-5p was identified. The cell viability of transfected cells was tested by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The mouse xenograft model was used to identify the effect of HOXA11-AS on tumor growth in vivo.

Results: Upregulation of lncRNA HOXA11-AS was found in LUAD, and suppression of HOXA11-AS could suppress the proliferative ability of LUAD cells. The let-7c-5p was expressed to be downregulated, which played an inhibitory role in LUAD cell proliferation. Let-7c-5p was negatively regulated by HOXA11-AS. HOXA11-AS promoted LUAD cell proliferation, while let-7c-5p had an inverse effect. Besides, IGF2BP1, regulated by let-7c-5p, had a positive relation with HOXA11-AS, while overexpression of IGF2BP1 could suppress the inhibition of silencing HOXA11-AS on LUAD cell proliferation. Experiments on mice confirmed that HOXA11-AS facilitated LUAD cell growth in vivo through regulating the let-7c-5p/IGF2BP1 axis.

Conclusion: HOXA11-AS promoted LUAD cell proliferation by targeting let-7c-5p/IGF2BP1, which could be potential molecular targets for LUAD.

Exosomal-long non-coding RNAs journey in colorectal cancer: Evil and goodness faces of key players

Exosomes are nano-vesicles (NVs) secreted by cells and take part in cell-cell communications. Lately, these exosomes were proved to have dual faces in cancer. Actually, they can contribute to carcinogenesis through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, metastasis and tumor microenvironment (TME) of various cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). On the other hand, they can be potential targets for cancer treatment. CRC is one of the most frequent tumors worldwide, with incidence rates rising in the recent decades. In its early stage, CRC is asymptomatic with poor treatment outcomes. Therefore, finding a non-invasive, early diagnostic biomarker tool and/or suitable defender to combat CRC is mandatory. Exosomes provide enrichment and safe setting for their cargos non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and proteins, whose expression levels can be upregulated ordown-regulated in cancer. Hence, exosomes can be used as diagnostic and/or prognostic tools for cancer. Moreover, exosomes can provide a novel potential therapeutic modality for tumors via loading with specific chemotherapeutic agents, with the advantage of possible tumor targeting. In this review, we will try to collect and address recent studies concerned with exosomes and their cargos' implications for CRC diagnosis and/or hopefully, treatment.

Oncogenic Roles of Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 7 (SNHG7) Long Noncoding RNA in Human Cancers and Potentials

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of noncoding transcripts characterized with more than 200 nucleotides of length. Unlike their names, some short open reading frames are recognized for them encoding small proteins. LncRNAs are found to play regulatory roles in essential cellular processes such as cell growth and apoptosis. Therefore, an increasing number of lncRNAs are identified with dysregulation in a wide variety of human cancers. SNHG7 is an lncRNA with upregulation in cancer cells and tissues. It is frequently reported with potency of promoting malignant cell behaviors in vitro and in vivo. Like oncogenic/tumor suppressor lncRNAs, SNHG7 is found to exert its tumorigenic functions through interaction with other biological substances. These include sponging target miRNAs (various numbers are identified), regulation of several signaling pathways, transcription factors, and effector proteins. Importantly, clinical studies demonstrate association between high SNHG7 expression and clinicopathological features in cancerous patients, worse prognosis, and enhanced chemoresistance. In this review, we summarize recent studies in three eras of cell, animal, and human experiments to bold the prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic potentials.

Prognostic effect of lncRNA SNHG7 on cancer outcome: a meta and bioinformatic analysis

BACKGROUND

New evidence from clinical and fundamental researches suggests that SNHG7 is involved in the occurrence and development of carcinomas. And the increased levels of SNHG7 are associated with poor prognosis in various kinds of tumors. However, the small sample size was the limitation for the prognostic value of SNHG7 in clinical application. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to conduct a qualitative analysis to explore the prognostic value of SNHG7 in various cancers.

METHODS

Articles related to the SNHG7 as a prognostic biomarker for cancer patients, were comprehensive searched in several electronic databases. The enrolled articles were qualified via the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology checklists. Additionally, an online database based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was further used to validate our results.

RESULTS

We analyzed 2418 cancer patients that met the specified criteria. The present research indicated that an elevated SNHG7 expression level was significantly associated with unfavorable overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.45, 95% CI: 2.12-2.85, p <0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that high expression levels of SNHG7 were also significantly associated with unfavorable OS in digestive system cancer (HR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.90-2.80, p <0.001) and non-digestive system cancer (HR = 2.67, 95% CI: 2.12-3.37, p <0.001). Additionally, increased SNHG7 expression was found to be associated with tumor stage and progression (III/IV vs. I/II: HR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.57-1.98, p <0.001). Furthermore, elevated SNHG7 expression significantly predicted lymph node metastasis (LNM) (HR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.74-2.26, p <0.001) and distant metastasis (DM) (HR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.88-3.30, p <0.001) respectively. No significant heterogeneity was observed among these studies. SNHG7 was significantly upregulated in four cancers and the elevated expression of SNHG7 predicted shorter OS in four cancers, worse DFS in five malignancies and worse PFI in five carcinomas based on the validation using the GEPIA on-line analysis tool.

CONCLUSIONS

The present analysis suggests that elevated SNHG7 is significantly associated with unfavorable OS, tumor progression, LNM and DM in various carcinomas, and may be served as a promising biomarker to guide therapy for cancer patients.

Role of lncRNA LINC01194 in hepatocellular carcinoma via the miR-655-3p/SMAD family member 5 axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The present study explored the role of lncRNA LINC01194, which is upregulated in HCC tissues and might be a vital regulator in HCC progression. Levels of LINC01194, microRNA (miR)-655-3p, and SMAD family member 5 (SMAD5) were assessed using reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The bioactivity of Huh-7 cells was assessed using cell counting kit-8 and transwell assays and flow cytometry. Western blotting was conducted to measure the expression of invasion- and apoptosis-related proteins. The relationships between lncRNA LINC01194 and miR-655-3p, and miR-655-3p and SMAD5 were predicted using StarBase and TargetScan, and further verified using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. LINC01194 was overexpressed in HCC cells and in clinical samples. ILINC01194 silencing suppressed proliferation and migration; however, it promoted apoptosis in HCC cell lines. We also confirmed that miR-655-3p could bind to LINC01194, and miR-655-3p was downregulated in HCC. The upregulation of miR-655-3p suppressed HCC cell invasion and migration, and enhanced the number of apoptotic cells. SMAD5, which was overexpressed in HCC cell lines, was directly targeted by miR-655-3p. Therefore, LINC01194 promoted HCC development by decreasing miR-655-3p expression and may serve as a promising therapeutic target for HCC patients.

Is Long Noncoding SNHG7 a Reliable Diagnostic Tool for Metastasis Diagnosis of Cancer: A Meta-Analysis

Background: The small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) has been suggested as a biomarker of metastatic cancer; however, its reliability is controversial. Therefore, the goal of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis to assess the reliability of SNHG7 as a comprehensive cancer metastasis diagnostic biomarker. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) to identify articles which examined the role of SNHG7 in cancers. Random-effects models and fixed-effects models were conducted to estimate the pooled odds ratios (ORs) for the associations of SNHG7 with distant metastases and lymph node metastases. Hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic (ROC) models were used to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of SNHG7 as a biomarker for cancer metastasis diagnoses. Results: Nineteen studies comprised 1491 patients were included in this meta-analysis. We found that both distant metastasis (OR = 4.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.93-5.99, I² = 34%) and lymph node metastasis (OR = 3.07, 95% CI = 1.65-5.68, I² = 79.03%) were significantly associated with a higher expression of SNHG7. We also showed a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 74% (95% CI = 66-82) and 57% (95% CI = 53-61) for distant metastasis; as well as 72% (95% CI = 63-80) and 54% (95% CI = 46-63) for lymph node metastasis, respectively. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that SNHG7 is a potential diagnostic biomarker for metastasis of cancer; however, its clinical application requires stronger evidence due to the low sensitivity and specificity. Further larger-scale studies from diverse settings and cancer types will be necessary to reveal novel insights into SNHG7 as a biomarker for cancer metastasis diagnoses.

Clinicopathological and prognostic value of long noncoding RNA SNHG7 in cancers: a meta-analysis and bioinformatics

The long intergenic non-coding RNA SNHG7 has been reported to be abnormally expressed in many types of cancer, the results remain controversial. In this study, a meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the clinicopathologic and prognostic value of SNHG7 in cancers. Electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase were used to search relevant studies. A combined hazard ratio (HR) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to assess the association between SNHG7 expression and prognosis in cancer patients. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI were calculated to elaborate the association between SNHG7 expression and clinicopathological features in cancers. Besides, the data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset was used to validate the results. In total, eighteen studies compromising 1303 participants were enrolled in this analysis. The pooled results showed increased SNHG7 expression could predict unfavorable overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.75, 95%CI = 1.52–2.02, P = 0.000). Analysis stratified by follow-up time, cancer types, analysis types, sample sizes and cut off further verified the prognostic value of SNHG7. Additionally, elevated SNHG7 expression was correlated with TNM stage (OR: 3.31, 95%CI = 2.29–4.80, P = 0.000), lymph node metastasis (OR = 3.32, 95%CI = 1.61–6.83, P = 0.004), and tumor differentiation (OR = 1.92, 95%CI = 1.22–3.03, P =0.005) in patients with cancers. Excavation of TCGA dataset valuated that SNHG7 was upregulated in some cancers and predicted worse OS, which partially confirmed our results in this meta-analysis.

FAIM2 Promotes Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Growth and Bone Metastasis by Activating the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

Aim

Bone metastasis is the major reason for the poor prognosis and high mortality rate of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. This study explored the function and underlying mechanism of Fas apoptotic inhibitory molecule 2 (FAIM2) in the bone metastasis of NSCLC.

Methods

Samples of normal lung tissue and NSCLC tissue (with or without bone metastasis) were collected and analyzed for FAIM2 expression. HARA cells with FAIM2 overexpression and HARA-B4 cells with FAIM2 knockdown were tested for proliferation, migration, invasion, anoikis, and their ability to adhere to osteoblasts. Next, whether FAIM2 facilitates bone metastasis by regulating the epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) process and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were investigated. Finally, an in vivo model of NSCLC bone metastasis was established and used to further examine the influence of FAIM2 on bone metastasis.

Results

FAIM2 was highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and NSCLC tissues with bone metastasis. FAIM2 expression was positively associated with the tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, bone metastasis, and poor prognosis of NSCLC. FAIM2 upregulation promoted HARA cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, but inhibited cell apoptosis. FAIM2 knockdown in HARA-B4 cells produced the opposite effects. HARA-B4 cells showed a stronger adhesive ability to osteocytes than did HARA cells. FAIM2 was found to be related to the adhesive ability of HARA and HARA-B4 cells to osteocytes. FAIM2 facilitated bone metastasis by regulating the EMT process and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Finally, FAIM2 was found to participate in regulating NSCLC bone metastasis in vivo.

Conclusions

FAIM2 promoted NSCLC cell growth and bone metastasis by regulating the EMT process and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. FAIM2 might be useful for diagnosing and treating NSCLC bone metastases.

The Long Non-coding RNA Cytoskeleton Regulator (CYTOR) Sponges microRNA- 206 (miR-206) to Promote Proliferation and Invasion of HP75 Cells

BACKGROUND

The role and mechanism of long non-coding RNA cytoskeleton regulator (CYTOR) in Invasive Pituitary Adenomas (IPA) have not been elucidated previously.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the interaction between CYTOR and miR-206 and their roles in IPA using HP75 cells as the model.

METHODS

The expression levels of CYTOR and miR-206 were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in IPA tissues and cell lines. The Chi-square test was used to analyze the correlation between CYTOR expression and clinical-pathological parameters. HP75 cell proliferation was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and colony formation assay. Scratch healing experiments and Transwell assay were used to detect migration and invasion of HP75 cells. The relationship between CYTOR and miR-206 was predicted by bioinformatics and verified by qRT-PCR and the dual-luciferase reporter gene method.

RESULTS

CYTOR is up-regulated in IPA tissues and cell lines. The high expression of CYTOR is associated with adenoma invasiveness and adenoma size of the patients. Down-regulation of CYTOR decreases the proliferation, migration and invasion of HP75 cells, while up-regulation of miR-206 can inhibit proliferation, migration and invasion of HP75 cells. MiR-206 is identified as a target of CYTOR and could be negatively regulated by it in IPA.

DISCUSSION

CYTOR, as a tumor-promoting factor, facilitates the proliferation, migration and invasion of HP75 cells through sponging miR-206.

CONCLUSION

The CYTOR-miR-206 axis provides new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of IPA.

Long Non-coding RNA MAFG-AS1 Promotes Cell Proliferation, Migration, and EMT by miR-3196/STRN4 in Drug-Resistant Cells of Liver Cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to participate in the development and progression of several different types of cancer. Past studies indicated that lncRNA MAFG-antisense 1 (AS1) promotes colorectal cancer. However, the role of MAFG-AS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. The aim of the present study is to examine the effect of lncRNA MAFG-AS1 on drug resistance HCC. The results indicated that MAFG-AS1 is upregulated in drug-resistant cells. Further, MAFG-AS1 promotes growth and migration of HCC by upregulating STRN4 through absorbing miR-3196. Thus, LncRNA MAFA-AS1 may become a novel target to treat HCC patients.

The Impact of lncRNAs and miRNAs on Apoptosis in Lung Cancer

Apoptosis is a coordinated cellular process that occurs in several physiological situations. Dysregulation of apoptosis has been documented in numerous pathological situations, particularly cancer. Non-coding RNAs regulate apoptosis via different mechanisms. Lung cancer is among neoplastic conditions in which the role of non-coding RNAs in the regulation of apoptosis has been investigated. Non-coding RNAs that regulate apoptosis in lung cancer have functional interactions with PI3K/Akt, PTEN, GSK-3β, NF-κB, Bcl-2, Bax, p53, mTOR and other important cancer-related pathways. Globally, over-expression of apoptosis-blocking non-coding RNAs has been associated with poor prognosis of patients, while apoptosis-promoting ones have the opposite effect. In the current paper, we describe the impact of lncRNAs and miRNAs on cell apoptosis in lung cancer.

A novel long noncoding RNA, TMEM92-AS1, promotes gastric cancer progression by binding to YBX1 to mediate CCL5

Numerous studies have revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with oncogene properties play vital roles in gastric cancer (GC). In this study, we aimed to elucidate the function of TMEM92-AS1 in GC progression and to investigate its underlying mechanisms. TMEM92-AS1 was filtered from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues were used to detect the expression level of TMEM92-AS1. MTT, colony-formation assays, Edu, cell cycle, apoptosis and subcutaneous tumour formation assays were used to detect the role of TMEM92-AS1 in cell function. RNA transcriptome sequencing was used to seek downstream target genes. Reverse transcription (RT)-qPCR, western blot, RNA and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to investigate the mechanisms involved. TMEM92-AS1 was significantly overexpressed in GC tissues and correlated with poor overall survival and disease-free survival. Furthermore, TMEM92-AS1 promoted GC cell proliferation and migration in vitro and tumorigenic ability in vivo. RNA transcriptome sequence analysis revealed a potential downstream target gene, C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), and a mechanistic study found that TMEM92-AS1 regulated CCL5 by binding to the transcription factor Y-box binding protein 1(YBX1), which has oncogene properties. In addition, TMEM92-AS1 was found to be associated with peripheral blood leukocyte counts, especially neutrophils. Further investigation found that TMEM92-AS1 may affect leukocytes via regulation of the expression of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in GC tissues. Our data provide an in-depth insight into the mechanism behind the lncRNA TMEM92-AS1, how it promotes GC progression and the possible mechanism in affecting peripheral leukocyte counts. Therefore, TMEM92-AS1 is a potential target for GC individualized therapy and prognostic assessment.

LncRNA-SNHG7/miR-29b/DNMT3A axis affects activation, autophagy and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis

OBJECTIVES

To determine the relative expression of long non-coding small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA-SNHG7) in fibrotic liver and hepatic stellate cells, and investigate the biological effects and mechanisms of SNHG7 on liver fibrosis.

METHODS

Liver fibrosis model of mice was established, primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were cultured from normal mice and induced to activate by TGF-β. Cell viability, proliferation, and autophagy were detected with MTT, BrdU, and MDC stain, respectively. Liver tissue stained with Masson and Sirius Red. The interaction between SNHG7 and miR-29b was investigated by immunoprecipitation, RNA pull-down and Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The effects of SNHG7 on the expression of miR-29b, DNMT3A and liver fibrosis related factors were detected in vitro or in vivo transfection experiments.

RESULTS

SNHG7 was signally increased in liver tissue and HSCs of liver fibrosis model of mice, and inhibition of SNHG7 expression in liver fibrosis mice can reduce liver fibrosis. We also found that SNHG7 could bind to miR-29b in HSCs and inhibit the expression of miR-29b. In TGF-β-stimulated normal HSCs, knockdown of SNHG7 expression after shSNHG7 transfection could restrain DNMT3A and HSCs activation factors α-SMA, Collα1 and autophagy-related factors LC3I/II, Beclin1. However, this shSNHG7 effect was reversed by the inhibition of miR-29b.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of lncRNA-SNHG7 can inhibit liver fibrosis. This is partly due to SNHG7 acts as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to affect the expression of DNMT3A, a downstream target gene of miR-29b, by binding to miR-29b, thereby affecting the activation, autophagy and proliferation of HSCs.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG7 facilitates pancreatic cancer progression by regulating the miR-146b-5p/Robo1 axis

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) plays a crucial role in the progression of pancreatic cancer (PC). SNHG7 is upregulated in PC; therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the role and underlying mechanism of SNHG7 on PC progression. In the present study, the mRNA expression levels of SNHG7, microRNA(miR)-146b-5p and roundabout homolog 1 (Robo1) were measured via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Moreover, cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by MTT and flow cytometry assays, respectively. The ability of cells to migrate and invade was evaluated by Transwell assays. In addition, dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull-down assays were conducted to assess the interaction between miR-146b-5p and SNHG7 or Robo1. The protein expression of Robo1 was measured via western blotting. Furthermore, mouse xenograft models were established to further investigate the effect of SNHG7 on PC progression in vivo. The results indicated that SNHG7 was highly expressed in PC tissues and cells. It was also found that SNHG7 was sponged by miR-146b-5p and that Robo1 was a target of miR-146b-5p. Moreover, it was demonstrated that SNHG7 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, as well as tumorigenesis and apoptosis of PC cells in vitro and in vivo by regulating miR-146b-5p. The results also suggested that miR-146b-5p overexpression inhibited the progression of PC cells by modulating Robo1. Furthermore, silencing of SNHG7 downregulated Robo1 expression by sponging miR-146b-5p. Collectively, the present results indicate that SNHG7 promotes PC progression by sponging miR-146b-5p and upregulating Robo1.

LncRNA-SNHG7 interferes with miR-34a to de-sensitize gastric cancer cells to cisplatin

Gastric cancer (GC) remains poor prognosis and survival issues due to the resistance of chemotherapies, such as cisplatin. The long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA-SNHG7) is known as an oncogenic molecule in diverse cancers. Here, we demonstrate that SNHG7 was significantly upregulated in gastric cancer and positively correlated with cisplatin resistance of gastric cancer cells that SNHG7 was significantly upregulated in cisplatin resistant cells. Silencing SNHG7 dramatically sensitized cisplatin resistant cells. In contrast, a negative correlation between lncRNA-SNHG7 and miR-34a was found that miR-34a was downregulated in gastric cancer patient tissues and significantly sensitized cisplatin resistant gastric cancer cells. Intriguingly, bioinformatical analysis indicated miR-34a has putative biding site for SNHG7 and such negative association between SNHG7 and miR-34a was verified in gastric cancer tissues. The cisplatin resistant cells displayed increased glycolysis rate and SNHG7 promoted cellular glycolysis rate of gastric cancer cells. Luciferase assay illustrated LDHA, a glycolysis enzyme, was the direct target of miR-34a. Importantly, inhibiting SNHG7 successfully suppressed LDHA expressions and sensitized cisplatin resistant cells and such inhibitory effects could be recovered by further anti-miR-34a. These findings suggest an important regulator mechanism for the SNHG7-mediated cisplatin resistance via miR-34a/LDHA-glycolysis axis.

Glutathione S‑transferase ω 1 promotes the proliferation, migration and invasion, and inhibits the apoptosis of non‑small cell lung cancer cells, via the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway

Glutathione S‑transferase ω 1 (GSTO1) expression levels have been discovered to be upregulated in various types of cancer. However, to the best of our knowledge, the role of GSTO1 in non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been investigated. The present study aimed to investigate the role of GSTO1 in NSCLC and to determine the potential molecular mechanism. GSTO1 expression levels in A549 cells were knocked down using short hairpin RNA and GSTO1 overexpression in H2122 cells was achieved using cDNA constructs. Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR was used to analyze the mRNA expression levels of GSTO1. Cell proliferation was determined using a Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay, whereas cell migration and invasion were analyzed using Transwell assays. Flow cytometric analysis was performed to determine the levels of cell apoptosis. The expression levels of GSTO1, Bax, caspase 3, JAK and STAT3 were analyzed using western blotting. The results revealed that GSTO1 overexpression significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion, and inhibited the apoptosis of H2122 cells, whereas the opposite trend was achieved in A549 cells with GSTO1 knockdown. GSTO1 overexpression also significantly increased the phosphorylation levels of JAK and STAT3, whereas the knockdown of GSTO1 promoted the opposite effects. In conclusion, the findings of the present study indicated that GSTO1 may serve as an oncogene in NSCLC. The results suggested that GSTO1 may have an important role in NSCLC by regulating the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, inhibiting the expression levels of GSTO1 may represent a potential novel therapeutic strategy for NSCLC.

Circular RNA hsa_circ_0008003 facilitates tumorigenesis and development of non-small cell lung carcinoma via modulating miR-488/ZNF281 axis

As one of the most aggressive malignancies, non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) has high risks of death. It has been demonstrated that circRNAs accelerate NSCLC progression, but the underlying molecular mechanisms of circRNAs in NSCLC were still obscure. In the first place, the circRNA microarray of NSCLC was investigated in this study, and hsa_circ_0008003 (circ‐0008003) was chosen as the research object. Then, it was unveiled that the expression of circ‐0008003 examined via qRT‐PCR was elevated in tumour tissues relative to the non‐tumour tissues, which was associated with TNM stage and lymphatic metastasis in NSCLC. Additionally, the prognosis of NSCLC patients with high circ‐0008003 level was poor. Besides, circ‐0008003 silencing dampened the invasion and proliferation of NSCLC cells. Next, according to the mechanistic studies, circ‐0008003 functioned as a ceRNA of ZNF281 in NSCLC by acting as the endogenous sponge for miR‐488, which was proved to be a tumour suppressor in NSCLC. Additionally, ZNF281 overexpression and miR‐488 suppression recovered the influences of repressed circ‐0008003 on NSCLC cellular processes. It was validated in this research that circ‐0008003 triggered tumour formation in NSCLC, which was adjusted via miR‐488/ZNF281 axis, casting a novel light on the resultful target for treating NSCLC and predicting the prognosis.

Long non-coding RNA LINC00887 promotes progression of lung carcinoma by targeting the microRNA-206/NRP1 axis

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to participate in multiple biological processes, including tumorigenesis. In the current study, the function of a novel lncRNA LINC00887 was investigated in lung carcinoma. For this purpose, LINC00887 expression was assessed by reverse-transcription quantitative PCR. Cell viability was determined by the CCK-8 and EdU assays. Cell invasion, migration were assessed by the transwell and wound healing assays, respectively. A dual luciferase assay was used for analysis of the interaction between LINC00887 and miR-206, as well as the relationship of miR-206 with NRP1. A tumor xenograft study was performed to investigate the LINC00887-miR-206-NRP1 axis in vivo. The expression levels of LINC00887 were upregulated in lung carcinoma tissues and cells compared with adjacent tissues or normal cells (BEAS-2B). Knockdown LINC00887 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of lung carcinoma A549 and NCI-H460 cells. Furthermore, LINC00887 was identified as a competing endogenous RNA and to directly interact with miR-206. Mechanistically, miR-206 was demonstrated to regulate neuropilin-1 (NRP1) expression by targeting the NRP1 3'-untranslated region. The results of the present study suggested that the LINC00887-miR-206-NRP1 axis served a critical role in regulating lung carcinoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion. In addition, xenograft tumor model experiments revealed that silencing LINC00887 suppressed lung carcinoma tumor growth of in vivo. In summary, our results suggest that LINC00887 may serve an oncogenic role in lung carcinoma by targeting the miR-206/NRP1 axis, providing a potential therapeutic target for patients with lung carcinoma.

LMCD1 antisense RNA 1 (LMCD1-AS1) potentiates thyroid cancer cell growth and stemness via a positive feedback loop of LMCD1-AS1/miR-1287-5p/GLI2

Background

LMCD1 antisense RNA 1 (LMCD1-AS1) is a certified oncogene in several tumour types. However, its role in thyroid cancer (THCA) remains unknown.

Methods

The expression level of LMCD1-AS1 in THCA cells and the normal control cell was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The effects of LMCD1-AS1 knockdown on cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis were detected by colony formation assay, EdU assay, wound healing assay and TUNEL assay. Sphere formation assay was applied to assess sphere formation ability of THCA cells. Bioinformatics analysis and mechanism experiments, including ChIP assay, RIP assay and luciferase reporter assay were conducted to evaluate the downstream and upstream molecular mechanisms of LMCD-AS1.

Results

A marked up-regulation of LMCD1-AS1 in THCA cells relative to normal control cells was found. LMCD1-AS1 silencing suppressed proliferation and migration but induced apoptosis in THCA cells. Moreover, LMCD1-AS1 knockdown reduced the sphere formation capacity of THCA cells. The transcriptional factor GLI family zinc finger 2 (GLI2) binds to LMCD1-AS1, which contributed to LMCD1-AS1 up-regulation in THCA cells. Cytoplasmic LMCD1-AS1 sponged a shared microRNA between LMCD1-AS1 and GLI2. GLI2 was inhibited bymiR-1287-5p and disinhibited by LMCD1-AS1.

Conclusions

LMCD1-AS1exerts pro-tumorigenic function through sponging miR-1287-5p to elevate GLI2 expression in THCA development, constituting a feedback loop of LMCD1-AS1/miR-1287-5p/GLI2.

Clinical implications and nomogram prediction of long noncoding RNA FRGCA as diagnostic and prognostic indicators in colon adenocarcinoma

Colorectal cancer, especially colon adenocarcinoma (COAD), is associated with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) has been implicated in tumorigenesis. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the potential diagnostic and prognostic values of lncRNA FRGCA in COAD.The data of 438 COAD patients were retrieved for analysis. Diagnostic significance was evaluated using tumor and nontumor tissues. Prognostic significance was evaluated using a Cox proportional regression model. Stratified analysis was performed to identify associations between clinical factors and lncRNA FRGCA expression. A nomogram was constructed using the clinical factors and lncRNA FRGCA for survival prediction. Enrichment analysis identified gene ontologies and metabolic pathways of mRNAs with high Pearson correlation coefficients with lncRNA FRGCA.lncRNA FRGCA was highly expressed in tumor tissues of COAD and demonstrated diagnostic value (area under curve = 0.763, P < .0001). Prognostic significance analysis indicated that lncRNA FRGCA had prognostic value in COAD [adjusted P < .001, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.444, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.288-0.685] and high expression of lncRNA FRGCA indicated better survival in COAD. A nomogram was evaluated for prediction of survival at 1, 3, and 5 years. Enrichment analysis revealed many mRNAs involved in the structural constituents of the mitochondrial inner membrane and translational termination, protein binding, translation, ribosome, oxidative phosphorylation, and metabolic pathways, especially the nucleoplasm.Differentially expressed in tumor vs nontumor tissues, lncRNA FRGCA had both diagnostic and prognostic implications in COAD, which may be associated with ribosome metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and nucleoplasm-related metabolic pathways.

LncRNA LINC00520 Predicts Poor Prognosis and Promotes Progression of Lung Cancer by Inhibiting MiR-3175 Expression

Purpose

The aim of this study was to study the roles and potential mechanism of LINC00520 in the progression of lung cancer.

Methods

The expression of LINC00520 and miR-3175 in lung cancer tissues and cells was detected by qRT-PCR. The relationship between LINC00520 level and disease stage was also calculated. Kaplan–Meier survival curve was drawn to observe the survival difference between high and low expression patients. Lipofectamine 2000 was used to transfect siLINC00520, miR-3175 inhibitor and their controls in lung cancer cells. CCK8 and colony formation assay were processed for cell proliferation. Transwell assay was undertaken for migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. MiRDB predicts the combination of LINC00520 and miR-3175. Luciferase and RNA pulldown assay were applied to verify the binding site. Correlation analysis of miR-3175 and LINC00520 expression in lung cancer tissues was shown.

Results

LINC00520 was highly expressed in lung cancer tissues and cells. Patients at III+IV stage were always with higher LINC00520 level than patients at I+II stage. Patients with high expression of lncRNA LINC00520 have short survival time (hazard ratio=1.7). Knockdown of LINC00520 inhibited proliferation, invasion and migration of lung cancer cells. LINC00520 targeted and negatively regulated miR-3175 (r=−0.528; P<0.001). MiR-3175 inhibitor rescued the effect of si-LINC00520 on lung cancer progression.

Conclusion

LncRNA LINC00520 could predict poor prognosis and promote progression of lung cancer by inhibiting miR-3175 expression.

The role of long noncoding RNA SNHG7 in human cancers (Review)

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to serve important roles in a variety of human tumor types. The lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is associated with a variety of cancer types, such as esophageal cancer, breast cancer and gastric neoplasia. Based on previous studies that examined SNHG7 expression in tumors, it has become clear that SNHG7 modulates tumorigenesis and cancer progression by acting as a competing endogenous RNA. SNHG7 can sponge tumor-suppressive microRNAs and regulate downstream signaling pathways. In addition, overexpression of SNHG7 is associated with the clinical characteristics of patients with cancer by regulating cellular proliferation, invasion and metastasis and by inhibiting apoptosis via a variety of mechanisms of action. The function of SNHG7 in tumorigenesis and cancer progression indicates that it can potentially act as a novel therapeutic target or a diagnostic biomarker for cancer therapy or detection, respectively.

The Long Non-coding RNA LINC01705 Regulates the Development of Breast Cancer by Sponging miR-186-5p to Mediate TPR Expression as a Competitive Endogenous RNA

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) may be a regulatory factor of tumorigenesis. However, it is unclear what its biomechanisms are in breast cancer. In this study, different lncRNAs were detected in breast cancer through microarray analysis (GSE119233) and LINC01705 was selected for further study. qRT-PCR was then utilized for the detection of LINC01705 expression in breast cancer cells. A transwell assay, flow cytometry, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), a cell counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), and a wound-healing assay were performed to determine cell migration, invasion, apoptosis, and proliferation in breast cancer, respectively. For the identification of potential targets of LINC01705, dual-luciferase reporter gene and bioinformatics assays were conducted. Moreover, for the clarification of their interaction and roles in the regulation of the occurrence of breast cancer, Western blotting and RIP assays were conducted. Our findings revealed high LINC01705 expression in breast cancer tissues relative to adjacent non-cancerous tissues (n = 40, P < 0.001). Overexpression of LINC01705 notably enhanced cell migration and proliferation in breast cancer. In addition, LINC01705 positively regulated the translocated promoter region, nuclear basket protein (TPR) through competition with miR-186-5p. In conclusion, our results suggest that LINC01705 is implicated in the progression of breast cancer via competitively binding to miR-186-5p as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), thereby regulating TPR expression.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG17 promotes proliferation, migration and invasion of glioma cells by regulating the miR-23b-3p/ZHX1 axis

BACKGROUND

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) small nucleolar RNA host gene 17 (SNHG17) is a carcinogenic lncRNA in diverse cancers. The expression pattern and mechanisms of SNHG17 in glioma still await verification.

METHODS

Paired glioma samples were enrolled. SNHG17, miR-23b-3p, and zinc-fingers and homeoboxes 1 (ZHX1) mRNA expression were examined by a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). SNHG17 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and miR-23b-3p mimics were transfected into LN229 and U251 cell lines to repress SNHG17 and up-regulate miR-23b-3p expression, respectively. Proliferation, migration and invasion of LN229 and U251 cells were probed by a cell counting kit-8 assay and a Transwell assay. Bioinformatics prediction, dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay, qRT-PCR and western blotting were applied to determine the regulatory relationships among SNHG17, miR-23b-3p and ZHX1.

RESULTS

SNHG17 expression was markedly raised in glioma tissues, which was positively correlated with ZHX1 expression and negatively associated with the expression of miR-23b-3p. After transfection of SNHG17 shRNAs into glioma cells, the proliferation, migration and invasion of cancer cells was markedly restrained. miR-23b-3p mimics the function of SHNG17 knockdown. Furthermore, miR-23b-3p was shown to be negatively modulated by SNHG17, and ZHX1 was identified as a target of miR-23b-3p.

CONCLUSIONS

SNHG17 is a "competing endogenous RNA" with respect to modulating ZHX1 expression by adsorbing miR-23b-3p and thereby promoting glioma progression.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG7 inhibits NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis by targeting the miR-34a/SIRT1 axis in liver cancer

Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is involved in a variety of different types of cancer; however, the role of SNHG7 during liver cancer progression is not completely understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate the functional role and regulatory mechanism underlying SNHG7 during liver cancer. A total of 25 paired hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting were performed to detect the expression levels of SNHG7, microRNA (miR)-34a, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and pyroptosis-related targets. RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed to detect the expression of SNHG7 in HCC tissues. SNHG7 expression was upregulated in HCC tissues and liver cancer cells compared with normal tissues and normal liver cell lines. High expression of SNHG7 inhibited NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3)-dependent pyroptosis in HepG2 and SK-hep-1 cells. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the interactions between miR-34a and SNHG7 or SIRT1. SNHG7 served as a competing endogenous RNA of miR-34a, and SIRT1 was identified as a direct target of miR-34a. Cell pyroptosis was evaluated by TUNEL and lactate dehydrogenase release assays. SNHG7 knockdown reduced SIRT1 expression, but increased the expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1 and interleukin-1β, leading to pyroptosis. SNHG7 knockdown-induced effects were enhanced by miR-34a upregulation. In summary, the present study indicated that the SNHG7/miR-34a/SIRT1 axis contributed to NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis during liver cancer.

High expression of lncRNA-SNHG7 is associated with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Expression of long non-coding RNA SNHG7 (lncRNA-SNHG7) and its clinical significance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were explored. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression level of lncRNA-SNHG7 in cancer tissues. Kaplan-Meier curves and multivariate Cox proportional models were used to study the impact on clinical outcome. Expression of lncRNA-SNHG7 was much higher in cancer tissues than that in para-cancer tissues. The lncRNA-SNHG7 expression was correlated with tumor number, lymph node metastasis and clinical stage (P<0.05). In addition, HCC patients with higher lncRNA-SNHG7 expression had significantly poorer progression-free survival time and overall survival time (P<0.001). Both univariate analysis and multivariate analysis indicated that high expression of lncRNA-SNHG7 was an independent predictor of poor prognosis in HCC. LncRNA-SNHG7 might contribute to the development of HCC and serve as a clinical biomarker and a therapeutic target for HCC patients.

Long non-coding RNA SNHG7 promotes malignant melanoma progression through negative modulation of miR-9

Long non-coding small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA SNHG7) was verified to act as an onco-gene in human cancers. Nevertheless, the role of SNHG7 in malignant melanoma remains elusive. The present study showed an increase of SNHG7 expression in malignant melanoma tissues and cell lines. Besides, SNHG7 knockdown inhibited proliferation and migration in malignant melanoma cells. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that SNHG7 functions as a molecular sponge for miR-9 in biological behavior of melanoma cells. And miR-9 could inhibit the expression of PI3KR3 by binding with the 3'-UTR. Furthermore, PI3KR3, pAKT, cyclin D1 and Girdin expression was down-regulated after SNHG7 knockdown by siRNA. In addition, SNHG7 knockdown decreased xenograft growth in vivo. Taken together, this research demonstrated that SNHG7 was an oncogene in malignant melanoma, providing a novel insight for the pathogenesis and new potential therapeutic target for malignant melanoma.

An Emerging Class of Long Non-coding RNA With Oncogenic Role Arises From the snoRNA Host Genes

The small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs) are a group of long non-coding RNAs, which are reported in many studies as being overexpressed in various cancers. With very few exceptions, the SNHGs (SNHG1, SNHG3, SNHG5, SNHG6, SNHG7, SNHG12, SNHG15, SNHG16, SNHG20) are recognized as inducing increased proliferation, cell cycle progression, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells, which makes this class of transcripts a viable biomarker for cancer development and aggressiveness. Through our literature research, we also found that silencing of SNHGs through small interfering RNAs or short hairpin RNAs is very effective in both in vitro and in vivo experiments by lowering the aggressiveness of solid cancers. The knockdown of SNHG as a new cancer therapeutic option should be investigated more in the future.

Knockdown of lncRNA BLACAT1 enhances radiosensitivity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells by regulating PSEN1

OBJECTIVE

This work focused on the function role and underlying mechanism of BLACAT1 in regulating the radiosensitivity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells via PSEN1.

METHODS

BLACAT1 and PSEN1 expression in HNSCC tissues and cells were measured by qRT-PCR. Kaplan-Meier method and Spearman's correlation analysis determined the prognostic roles and association of BLCAT1 and PSEN1 in HNSCC. The impacts of BLACAT1 and PSEN1, alone and in combination, on radiosensitivity of HNSCC cells were separately assessed through CCK-8, colony formation, flow cytometry, western blot and γH2AX foci staining assays.

RESULTS

Our study disclosed that BLACAT1 and PSEN1 were both in association with poor prognosis and radioresistance of HNSCC cells. BLACAT1 knockdown improved the radiosensitivity of HNSCC cells by changing cellular activities containing repressed cell viability, accelerated cell apoptosis, induced cell cycle arrest, and stimulated DNA damage response. Further, we found that PSEN1 was positively correlated with BLACAT1. Rescue assays confirmed that BLACAT1 regulated the radiosensitivity of HNSCC cells by modulating PSEN1.

CONCLUSION

We revealed that BLACAT1 knockdown enhanced radioresistance of HNSCC cells via regulating PSEN1, exposing the probable target role of BLACAT1 in HNSCC.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

This was the first time that the pivotal role of BLACAT1 was investigated in HNSCC, which provided a novel therapeutic direction for HNSCC patients.

LncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 are Promising Biomarkers for Prognosis in Synchronous Colorectal Liver Metastasis Following Hepatectomy

Purpose

Synchronous colorectal liver metastasis (SCLM) had limited availability of tools to predict survival and tumor recurrence. LncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 have been proven to be closely related to cancer progression. However, the predictive value of lncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 in cancer prognosis is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether lncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 could be used as promising biomarkers for prognosis prediction of SCLM patients who underwent hepatectomy.

Methods

The expression profile of lncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 in serum of SCLM patients was examined by qRT-PCR. The relationship between lncRNA expression and clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed. The Cox proportional-hazards regression model and Kaplan-Meier analysis were performed to analyze the association between lncRNA expression and overall survival (OS) and tumor recurrence of SCLM patients.

Results

Levels of lncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 in patients who underwent recurrence or death were significantly higher than that of patients with recurrence-free or survival (P<0.01). Both lncRNA CRNDE high level and lncRNA SNHG7 high level showed a significant correlation with differentiation of primary tumor, invasion depth of primary focus, lymph node metastases, number of liver metastases, and liver metastasis grade. High levels of lncRNA CRNDE or lncRNA SNHG7 predicted shorter recurrence time, shorter OS time, higher recurrence rate and lower OS rate. Furthermore, lncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 were independent risk factors for high recurrence and poor OS in SCLM underwent hepatectomy.

Conclusion

Taken together, lncRNA CRNDE and lncRNA SNHG7 could be promising biomarkers for prediction of OS and tumor recurrence in SCLM underwent hepatectomy.

Non-coding RNA profile in lung cancer

Lung cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy and the leading source of cancer-associated mortality. This kind of cancer has heterogeneous nature and is divided into two broad classes of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In addition to aberrant expression of several signaling pathways and oncogenes, lung cancer is associated with dysregulation of expression of non-coding RNAs including both long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and miRNAs. These aberrantly expressed transcripts are putative therapeutic targets and diagnostic/ prognostic markers. Integrative assessment of expression of lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs has led to construction of competing endogenous RNA networks in which several lncRNAs act as molecular sponges to inhibit regulatory function of miRNAs on mRNAs. Notably, some of these networks seem to have subtype-specific functions in lung cancer. In this review, we summarize recent findings about the importance of these networks in the pathogenesis of lung cancer and provide a list of onco-miRNAs, tumor suppressor miRNAs, oncogenic lncRNAs and tumor suppressor lncRNAs based on their roles in the carcinogenic process in lung cancer.

Long non-coding RNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 expression level in prostate cancer tissues predicts the prognosis of patients with prostate cancer

Long non-coding small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (lncRNA SNHG7) is located on chromosome 9q34.3 in length of 984 bp. SNHG7 has been found to play the role of oncogene in varieties of cancers, and its dysregulation has been found to be associated with carcinogenesis and progression. In the present study, we examined the expression of SNHG7 in prostate cancer tissues and in paired adjacent normal prostate tissues, and we further explored the clinical significance and prognostic value of SNHG7 in prostate cancer patients.A total of 127 prostate cancer tissues were collected from prostate cancer patients who underwent radical prostatectomy between April 2011 and March 2019 at the department of urology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction experiment was performed to detect the relative expressions of SNHG7 in the prostate cancer tissues and normal prostate tissues. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to create survival curves and the log-rank test was used to determine statistical significance. A Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic factors in univariate and multivariate analyses.Compared with paired adjacent normal prostatic tissues, SNHG7 expression was increased in prostate cancer tissues (P < .001). Increased SNHG7 expression correlated with Gleason score (P = .021), bone metastasis (P = .013), pelvic lymph node metastasis (P = .008), and TNM stage (P = .007). Multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed increased SNHG7 expression was independently associated with a poor prognosis of prostate cancer patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.839, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.921-8.382, P = .038).This study showed that lncRNA-SNHG7 was overexpressed in prostate cancer tissues, and it might contributes to the development and progression of prostate cancer. Furthermore, the SNHG7 expression was associated with the prognosis of prostate cancer, suggesting a potential target for the treatment and prognosis of prostate cancer. Nevertheless, the underlying modulatory mechanism by which SNHG7 aggravates prostate cancer progression need to be further studied.

SNHG7: A novel vital oncogenic lncRNA in human cancers

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of RNAs that lack protein-coding ability, with lengths greater than 200 nucleotides. Increasing evidence has indicated that they mediate multiple physiological and pathological processes by regulating gene expression at the epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translational levels. The deregulation of lncRNAs was demonstrated to have tumor suppressive or oncogenic effects, and thus, these molecules play vital regulatory roles in tumor initiation and progression. Small nucleolar RNA hostgene 7 (SNHG7) is a lncRNA located on chromosome 9q34.3. Different studies have explored the potential role of SNHG7 in the development and progression of multiple human malignancies such as bladder, breast, colorectal, esophageal, gastric, and prostate cancer, as well as osteosarcoma, among others, and high expression predicts poor prognosis and poor survival for such patients. Moreover, this molecule can promote proliferation and metastasis, while inhibiting apoptosis in cancer cells. The present review highlights the latest insights into the expression, functional roles, and molecular mechanisms of SNHG7 in different human malignancies.

Long Noncoding RNA SNHG7, a Molecular Sponge for microRNA-485, Promotes the Aggressive Behavior of Cervical Cancer by Regulating PAK4

Purpose

A long noncoding RNA called small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is known to be a key regulator of biological processes in multiple human cancer types. In this study, our aims were to determine the expression status of SNHG7 in cervical cancer, to figure out the detailed roles of SNHG7 in cervical cancer cells, and to identify the mechanism underlying the activity of SNHG7 in cervical cancer.

Methods

Reverse-transcription quantitative PCR was performed to measure SNHG7 expression in cervical cancer. A Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow-cytometric analysis, cell migration and invasion assays, and a tumor xenograft experiment were conducted to respectively determine the effects of SNHG7 on cervical cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo.

Results

SNHG7 was found to be markedly upregulated in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines. Higher SNHG7 expression significantly correlated with FIGO stage, lymph node metastasis, the depth of cervical invasion, and shorter overall survival in patients with cervical cancer. Functional experiments indicated that a SNHG7 knockdown attenuated proliferation, migration, and invasiveness and promoted apoptosis of cervical cancer cells in vitro. The SNHG7 knockdown also slowed tumor growth in vivo. Further investigation showed that SNHG7 acts as a competing endogenous RNA for microRNA-485 (miR-485) in cervical cancer cells, and the inhibitory actions of the SNHG7 knockdown on the malignant phenotype were reversed by miR-485 inhibition. P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) was identified as a direct target gene of miR-485 in cervical cancer, and PAK4 expression was promoted by SNHG7.

Conclusion

SNHG7 functions as an oncogenic RNA in cervical cancer, competitively binds to miR-485, and thereby upregulates PAK4. This SNHG7–miR-485–PAK4 regulatory network may provide insights into the pathogenesis of cervical cancer, and can help in the identification of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for cervical cancer.

The function of SNHG7/miR-449a/ACSL1 axis in thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer (TC) has been characterized as the most common malignant malady of the endocrine system. Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) has been reported to serve as a key regulator in a large number of human cancer types, but its role in TC and the underlying regulatory mechanism have never been evaluated yet. The present study indicated that the expression of SNHG7 was markedly higher in TC cell lines. Knockdown of SNHG7 led to a suppression of TC cell progression and migration. Acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 1 (ACSL1) has also been demonstrated as an oncogene in many cancers. Herein an inhibition of ACSL1 after SNHG7 knockdown was captured. Further, the suppressing effects of SNHG7 knockdown on TC cell processes were counteracted by ACSL1 overexpression. Data from online bioinformatics analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assays validated the interaction between microRNA-449a (miR-449a) and SNHG7 or ACSL1. It was also verified that SNHG7 sequestered miR-449a and therefore elevated ACSL1 expression levels. To conclude, the current study indicated that SNHG7 promoted proliferation and migration of TC cells by sponging miR-449a and therefore upregulating ACSL1. The present study may provide more explorations about the molecular regulation mechanism of long noncoding RNAs in TC progression.

Downregulated long non-coding RNA SNHG7 restricts proliferation and boosts apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by elevating microRNA-140-5p to suppress GLI3 expression

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proposed to correlate with various carcinomas, yet the role of lncRNA SNHG7 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is hardly studied. This study intends to examine the molecular mechanism of SNHG7 on NPC cells. The NPC tissues and nasopharyngeal tissues of mild inflammation of nasopharyngeal mucosa were obtained. SNHG7, miR-140-5p, and GLI3 mRNA and protein expression in tissues and in the CNE1, HONE1, C666-1, CNE2, and normal NP69 cell lines was detected. IC50 and the protein expression of related drug-resistant genes of CNE2 and CNE2/DDP cells were determined. Proliferative ability, cell colony formation rate, cell cycle, and apoptosis of CNE2 and CNE2/DDP cells were also detected. SNHG7, miR-140-5p, and GLI3 mRNA and protein expression in CNE2 and CNE2/DDP cells in each group was detected. SNHG7’s cell localization, the binding sites of SNHG7 and miR-140-5p along with miR-140-5p and GLI3 were detected. Overexpressed SNHG7 and GLI3, and underexpressed miR-140-5p were found in NPC tissues and cells. SNHG7 silencing and miR-140-5p elevation declined the drug resistance of drug-resistant NPC cells and their parent cells, restrained NPC cell colony formation ability and proliferation, and boosted cell apoptosis. SNHG7 specially bound to miR-140-5p, and SNHG7 silencing elevated miR-140-5p expression. GLI3 was a direct target gene of miR-140-5p and miR-140-5p elevation diminished GLI3 expression. MiR-140-5p inhibition reversed the impacts of SNHG7 silencing on NPC cells. In summary, our study reveals that downregulated SNHG7 restricts GLI3 expression by upregulating miR-140-5p, which further suppresses cell proliferation, and promotes apoptosis of NPC.

Potential Prognostic and Diagnostic Values of CDC6, CDC45, ORC6 and SNHG7 in Colorectal Cancer

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common human malignancy. The aims of this study are to investigate the gene expression profile of CRC and to explore potential strategy for CRC diagnosis, therapy and prognosis.

Methods

We use affy and Limma package of Bioconductor R to do differential expression genes (DEGs) and differential expression lncRNAs (DELs) analysis from the gene datasets (GSE8671, GSE21510, GSE32323, GSE39582 and TCGA) respectively. Then, DEGs were analyzed by GO and KEGG pathway and Kaplan-Meier survival curve and Cox regression analyses were used to find aberrantly expressed genes associated with survival outcome of CRC patients. Real-time PCR assay was used to verify the aberrantly expressed genes expression in CRC samples.

Results

306 up-regulation and 213 down-regulation common DEGs were found. A total of 485 DELs were identified, of which 241 up-regulated and 244 down-regulated. Then, GO and KEGG pathway analyses showed that DEGs were involved in cell cycle, mineral absorption, DNA replication, and Nitrogen metabolism. Among them, Kaplan-Meier survival curve and Cox regression analyses revealed that CDC6, CDC45, ORC6 and SNHG7 levels were significantly associated with survival outcome of CRC patients. Finally, real-time PCR assay was used to verify that the CDC6, CDC45, ORC6 and SNHG7 expression were up-regulated in 198 CRC samples compared with the expression levels in individual-matched adjacent mucosa samples.

Conclusion

CDC6, CDC45, ORC6 and SNHG7 are implicated in CRC initiation and progression and could be explored as potential diagnosis, therapy and prognosis targets for CRC.

SNHG7 accelerates cell migration and invasion through regulating miR-34a-Snail-EMT axis in gastric cancer

Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) is a newly recognized oncogenic Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in most human cancers. In gastric cancer, SNHG7 has been suggested to enhance cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis through down-regulating P15 and P16 expression, but the effect of SNHG7 on gastric cancer cell migration and invasion was still unknown. In our study, we aimed to estimate the relationship between SNHG7 expression and clinical and pathological characteristics, and explore the effect of SNHG7 on gastric cancer cell migration and invasion. In our study, the levels of SNHG7 expression in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines were severally higher than in normal adjacent tissues and gastric mucosal epithelial cells. Moreover, high SNHG7 expression was positively correlated with TNM stage, depth of invasion, lymph-node metastasis and distant metastasis in gastric cancer patients. Furthermore, the multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis further showed high SNHG7 expression was an independent poor prognostic factor for overall survival in gastric cancer patients. The studies in vitro revealed that SNHG7 directly binds to miR-34a and negatively regulates miR-34a expression, and SNHG7 enhances gastric cancer cell migration and invasion through suppressing miR-34a-Snail-EMT axis. In conclusion, SNHG7 functions as oncogenic lncRNA in gastric cancer and may be a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer patients.Abbreviations: lncRNA: Long non-coding RNA; SNHG7: Small nucleolar RNA host gene 7; EMT: Epithelial mesenchymal transition; TNM: Tumor-Lymph Node-Metastasis.

Long non-coding RNA in lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Owing to the difficulty in early diagnosis and the lack of effective treatment strategies, the 5-year survival rates for lung cancer remain very low. With the development of whole genome and transcriptome sequencing technology, long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has attracted increasing attention. LncRNAs regulate gene expression at the epigenetic, transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels and are widely involved in a variety of diseases, including tumorigenesis. In lung cancer studies, multiple differentially expressed lncRNAs have been identified; several lncRNAs were identified as oncogenic lncRNAs with tumor-driving effects, while other lncRNAs play a role in tumor inhibition and are called tumor-suppressive lncRNAs. These tumor-suppressive lncRNAs are involved in multiple physiological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis and thus participate in tumor progression. In this review, we discussed the oncogenic and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs in lung cancer, as well as their biological functions and regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, we found the potential significance of lncRNAs in clinical diagnosis and treatment.

c-Myc-Induced Long Non-Coding RNA Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 7 Regulates Glycolysis in Breast Cancer

Purpose

Recent studies have shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) play an important role in cancer metabolism and development. The lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 7 (SNHG7) was reported to be upregulated in colorectal cancer and contribute to its progression. In the current study, we investigated the role of lncRNA-SNHG7 in breast cancer and explored the underlying mechanism.

Methods

We monitored the expression of lncRNA-SNHG7 in breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cell lines. We evaluated the effects of lncRNA-SNHG7 on cell proliferation and glycolysis in breast cancer cells by knocking down or overexpressing lncRNA-SNHG7. We searched for the potential microRNA (miRNA) target of lncRNA-SNHG7 and evaluated the effects of the target miRNA on glycolysis. We evaluated the potential regulation of lncRNA-SNHG7 by c-Myc.

Results

LncRNA-SNHG7 was up-regulated in both breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cell lines. Knocking down lncRNA-SNHG7 inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation while overexpressing lncRNA-SNHG7 enhanced cell proliferation. Knocking down lncRNA-SNHG7 resulted in decreased expression of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and decreased glycolysis. LncRNA-SNHG7 targeted miR-34a-5p to regulate LDHA expression and glycolysis. c-Myc bound to promoter of lncRNA-SNHG7 and positively regulated lncRNA-SNHG7 expression.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that c-Myc regulated glycolysis through the lncRNA-SNHG7/miR-34a-5p/LDHA axis in breast cancer cells.

lncRNA‑u50535 promotes the progression of lung cancer by activating CCL20/ERK signaling

The ligand/receptor pair C‑C motif chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20)/C‑C motif chemokine receptor 6 (CCR6) is considered to be highly activated in lung cancer and significantly accelerates lung cancer progression through activation of ERK signaling. In addition, it has been shown that long non‑coding RNA‑u50535 (lncRNA‑u50535) upregulates CCL20 expression and facilitates cancer progression in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the effects of lncRNA‑u50535 in lung cancer progression and whether lncRNA‑u50535 regulates CCL20/CCR6/ERK signaling in lung cancer remain ill‑defined. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of lncRNA‑u50535 on CCL20/CCR6/ERK signaling in lung cancer progression. The results demonstrated that lncRNA‑u50535 expression was upregulated in lung cancer tissues and cell lines compared with normal tissues and cells. Knockdown of lncRNA‑u50535 decreased lung cancer cell proliferation and migration, induced G0/G1 phase arrest and promoted cell apoptosis. Western blot and luciferase reporter gene assays demonstrated that lncRNA‑u50535 overexpression increased the translation and transcription of CCL20. In addition, knockdown of lncRNA‑u50535 decreased CCL20, CCR6 and p‑ERK levels. The effects of lncRNA‑u50535 on cell proliferation and cell apoptosis were weakened when CCL20 was silenced. Overall, the present study demonstrated that lncRNA‑u50535 may function as an oncogene in lung cancer progression by regulating CCL20/ERK signaling.