LncRNA ENST00000434223 exerts regulatory effects on NSCLC cells via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the role and underlying mechanism of lncRNA ENST00000434223 (lncRNA ENST) in the occurrence of NSCLC. 
 Methods: Quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to evaluate relative lncRNA ENST, β-catenin, Wnt1, and cyclin D1 expression levels in NSCLC tissues, cells, and sera. Proliferation of NSCLC cells was assessed using CCK-8 assay, while Transwell assay was utilized in evaluating changes in cell invasion/migration. Changes in Wnt1, cyclin D1, and β-catenin expressions were determined using qRT-PCR, while alterations in their protein expressions were determined by western blot (WB). In vivo experiments were conducted in nude mice to investigate the effects of lncRNA ENST on tumor growth. 
 Results: lncRNA ENST expression was low in sera, cells, and tissues of NSCLC (p <0.05). Tumor metastasis and size, lymphatic metastasis, and clinical stage were correlated with lncRNA ENST expression (p < 0.05). It was found that ENST could be applied as independent prognostic factor in NSCLC patients. Upregulated expression of lncRNA ENST restrained cell migration, proliferation, and invasion (p < 0.05). Compared with t NC group, lncRNA ENST expression decreased expressions of Wnt1, cyclin D1, and β-catenin in SPC-A1 cells and A549 cells (p < 0.05). 
 Conclusion: lncRNA ENST inhibits the proliferation and apoptosis of NSCLC cells via Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Thus, it is a possible biomarker for NSCLC, and provides a novel insight into the clinical management of NSCLC.