miR-128 Functions as an OncomiR for the Downregulation of HIC1 in Breast Cancer

Hypermethylated in cancer 1 (HIC1) is continually decreased in breast cancer. However, the underlying molecular basis of the upstream regulation of HIC1 remains elusive. Here, we showed that HIC1 was downregulated in breast cancer tissues. Bioinformatics analysis identified that miR-128 might potentially target HIC1. HIC1 was proved as the target gene of miR-128 by overexpressing or knocking down miR-128. Additionally, we observed that HIC1 suppression by miR-128 increased cell invasion, proliferation, and reduced apoptosis. Lastly, we found that miR-128 accelerated tumor growth in xenograft mice by inhibiting HIC1. Altogether, this study presents the first evidence that miR-128 suppresses the expression of HIC1 to accelerate breast cancerogenesis.
Source: Frontiers in Pharmacology - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research