MiR-186 inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer cells by downregulating Yin Yang 1

BACKGROUND: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the main type of lung cancer. While miR-186 is significantly reduced in lung cancer tissues and cells, its role in NSCLC has not been completely elucidated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We used qRT-PCR and western blot methods to investigate the levels of miR-186 and YY1 in 21 pairs of NSCLC tissues. Dual luciferase reporter gene assays were performed to detect whether miR-186 directly targets YY1. Next, the roles of miR-186 and its target gene (YY1) in determining the proliferation, apoptosis and migration capabilities of selected cell lines (A549 and HCC827) were investigated by using miR-186 mimics or YY1 siRNA. RESULTS: Our results showed that miR-186 was downregulated and YYI was upregulated in NSCLC tissue, and miR-186 expression was negatively associated with YY1. Similarly, miR-186 was also downregulated and YY1 expression also was upregulated in both A549 and HCC827 cells; furthermore, miR-186 was found to directly target YY1. Cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, as well as apoptosis induction were more strongly inhibited by YY1 siRNA than by miR-186. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that miR-186 and its target gene (YY1) could possibly serve as new prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for treating NSCLC in humans.