MicroRNA-138 Abates Fibroblast Motility With Effect on Invasion of Adjacent Cancer Cells

Abstract

BackgroundRecent studies have shown aberrant expression of micro-RNAs in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). This study aimed to investigate miR-138 dysregulation in CAFs in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its effects on their phenotype and invasion of adjacent OSCC cells.MethodsExpression of miR-138 was first investigated in OSCC lesions (n = 53) and OSCC-derived CAFs (n = 15). MiR-138 mimics and inhibitors were used to functionally investigate the role of miR-138 on CAF phenotype and the resulting change in their ability to support OSCC invasion.ResultsExpression of miR-138 showed marked heterogeneity in both OSCC tissues and cultured fibroblasts. Ectopic miR-138 expression reduced fibroblasts’ motility and collagen contraction ability and suppressed invasion of suprajacent OSCC cells, while its inhibition resulted in the opposite outcome. Transcript and protein examination after modulation of miR-138 expression showed changes in CAF phenotype-specific molecules, focal adhesion kinase axis, and TGFβ1 signaling pathway.ConclusionsDespite its heterogeneous expression, miR-138 in OSCC-derived CAFs exhibits a tumor-suppressive function.

Effect of miR-138 on migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells, and the underlying mechanism

“…Nonetheless, research has confirmed that it is present in low levels in cervical cancer specimens, with close and positive correlations between its level and the degree of cervical intraepithelial lesions [13]. Thus, miR-138 level is intimately associated with the occurrence, development and extent of cervical neoplasm [13]. This study has shown significantly lower relative expression level of miR-138 in cervical cancer tissues than in nearby healthy tissues.…”

“…However, the actual function of miR-138 in development of cancer is not yet completely fully understood [12]. Nonetheless, research has confirmed that it is present in low levels in cervical cancer specimens, with close and positive correlations between its level and the degree of cervical intraepithelial lesions [13]. Thus, miR-138 level is intimately associated with the occurrence, development and extent of cervical neoplasm [13].…”