miR-342-3p Suppresses glioblastoma development via targeting CDK6

Abstract

Background: Glioblastoma is the most malignant primary brain tumor with dysregulated microRNAs affecting development and malignant transformation. Methods: Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset (GSE165937) was retrieved, and the differential expressed microRNAs were screened and testified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in glioblastoma cells. miR-342-3p mimic was transfected into U87MG and U251MG cells. EdU staining, cell counting kit-8, and transwell assay were utilized to evaluate the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioblastoma. The potential binding sequences between miR-342-3p and CDK6 were predicted and testified by TargetScan and luciferase reporter assay. Relative CDK6 and miR-342-3p expression were detected with qRT-PCR and Western blot. Results: Down-regulated miR-342-3p was observed in both glioblastoma tissues and cell lines. Over-expressed miR-342-3p prohibited glioblastoma cells proliferation, migration, and invasion, which could be rescued by further CDK6 transfection. Mechanically, miR-342-3p could directly bind with CDK6 as testified with luciferase analysis and down-regulated CDK6 expression. Conclusion: Down-regulated miR-342-3p may promote glioblastoma cells proliferation, migration, and invasion with up-regulated CDK6, which indicates that miR-342-3p/CDK6 might be a treatment target in glioblastoma development.