miR-183-5p acts as a potential prognostic biomarker in gastric cancer and regulates cell functions by modulating EEF2

Abstract Background Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth most prevalent malignant tumor and the second leading cause of cancer-related death around the world. Aberrant proliferation and metastasis are the mainspring of death in patients with GC. However, the specific mechanism of gastric cancer is far from being fully elucidated. Accumulating evidence revealed that miRNA played a significant role in the tumorigenesis and development. Methods The level of miR-183-5p was detected in 102 GC patients by using qRT-PCR. The prognostic value of miR-183-5p in GC was evaluated. Cell function assays (CCK-8 and transwell assays) were conducted to assess the role of miR-183-5p in proliferation and metastasis in GC. Dual luciferase report assay and western blot were performed to validate this potential target regulated by miR-183-5p in GC. Results miR-183-5p was down-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines. Remarkable pertinence was obtained between miR-183-5p level and TNM stage, tumor size, invasion depth, and lymph node metastasis. TNM stage, differentiation and miR-183-5p level were independent causes impacting on the overall survival in GC in multivariate analysis. GC individuals with high miR-183-5p level would experience a relatively better survival prognosis. Upregulation of miR-183-5p restrained GC cell proliferation and migration. EEF2 may be a potential target gene regulated by miR-183-5p in GC. Conclusion miR-183-5p acts as a potential prognostic biomarker in gastric cancer and regulates cell functions by modulating EEF2.