Aim: The study aimed to probe into the functions and mechanisms of miR-3188 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Materials & methods: Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot were implemented to detect the expressions of miR-3188 and CXCL14 in HCC tissues and cell lines. CCK-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to investigate the relationship between miR-3188 and CXCL14. Results: miR-3188 is up-regulated in HCC tissues. MiR-3188 overexpression promoted cell viability and proliferation but inhibited the apoptosis of HCC cells. CXCL14 was proven to be a target of miR-3188, and CXCL14 reversed the effects of miR-3188 on HCC cells. Conclusion: MiR-3188 regulates the growth and apoptosis of HCC cells by targeting CXCL14.
Keywords: CXCL14; apoptosis; hepatocellular carcinoma; miR-3188.