Background
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in oncogenesis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). miR-134 is reported to have a tumour-suppressive role but its role in ESCC is not known. The present study was designed to examine whether miR-134 inhibits ESCC development and further explored relevant underlying mechanisms.
Methods
Differentially expressed genes related to ESCC were identified from microarray gene expression profiles. Immunohistochemical staining and RT-qRCR assays identified elevated PLXNA1 expression levels and low miR-134. The relationship between miR-134 and PLXNA1 was predicted and further verified by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. The expression levels of miR-134 and PLXNA1 in ESCC cells were modified by miR-134 mimic/inhibitor and siRNA against PLXNA1, respectively. Thereafter, the expression of MAPK signalling pathway-related proteins, as well as the viability, migration, invasion, cell cycle and cell apoptosis of ESCC cells was investigated. Findings: The