Circular RNA hsa_circ_0011298 enhances Taxol resistance of non-small cell lung cancer by regulating miR-486-3p/CRABP2 axis

Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) serve as critical regulators in the chemoresistance of human cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to explore the role of hsa_circ_0011298 (circ_0011298) and its mechanism in Taxol resistance of NSCLC.

Methods: Circ_0011298, microRNA-486-3p (miR-486-3p), and CRABP2 mRNA expression were determined using qRT-PCR. EdU and MTT assays were used to detect cell proliferation. Cell cycle distribution and cell apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Cell migratory and invasive abilities were detected using transwell assay. Cellular glycolysis was determined by specific kits. Protein levels were examined by western blot. Dual-luciferase reporter and RIP assays were performed to confirm the relationship between miR-486-3p and circ_0011298 or CRABP2. Xenograft mice model was established to confirm the function of circ_0011298 in vivo.

Results: Circ_0011298 was overexpressed in Taxol-resistant NSCLC cells and tissues. Circ_0011298 knockdown enhanced Taxol sensitivity by decreasing cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis and inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in Taxol-resistant NSCLC cells. Circ_0011298 was a sponge of miR-486-3p, and the impact of circ_0011298 silencing on Taxol resistance was rescued by miR-486-3p inhibition. Moreover, miR-486-3p directly targeted CRABP2, and miR-486-3p inhibited Taxol resistance by targeting CRABP2. Furthermore, circ_0011298 regulated CRABP2 expression through targeting miR-486-3p. Importantly, circ_0011298 interference elevated Taxol sensitivity of NSCLC in vivo.

Conclusion: Circ_0011298 elevated Taxol resistance of NSCLC by sponging miR-486-3p and upregulating CRABP2, providing a possible circRNA-targeted therapy for NSCLC.