Circ_SATB2 knockdown inhibits the tumorigenesis of non-small cell lung cancer via miR-760/KIF2A axis

Abstract

Purpose. This study was aimed at exploring the function and underlying mechanism of circ_SATB2 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods. The levels of circ_SATB2, microRNA-760 (miR-760) and Kinesin family member 2a (KIF2A) were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction or western blot assay. The proliferation was detected using MTT and colony formation assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis were evaluated by flow cytometry. Transwell assay for migration and invasion and western blot for metastasis-associated proteins were conducted. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to analyze the interaction between miR-760 and circ_SATB2 or KIF2A. The effect of circ_SATB2 on NSCLC tumor growth in vivo was studied by xenograft mice model. Results. Circ_SATB2 was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells. Circ_SATB2 knockdown caused inhibitory effects on NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis but accelerated apoptosis. Circ_SATB2 served as a sponge of miR-760 to act in the development of NSCLC. Moreover, miR-760 could target KIF2A, and KIF2A expression was positively regulated by circ_SATB2. Furthermore, KIF2A overexpression neutralized miR-760-mediated inhibition effects on NSCLC cell progression. Besides, circ_SATB2 enhanced NSCLC tumorigenesis by targeting miR760/KIF2A axis in vivo. Conclusion. Circ_SATB2 was highly expressed and participated in the progression of NSCLC through the modulation of the miR-760/KIF2A axis, suggesting that circ_SATB2 might be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of NSCLC.