Abstract:

Background and purpose: MicroRNA(miRNA) is a class of small non-coding RNA playing an important regulatory role in many diseases. In this study, we explore the levels of miR-192 and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) in CRC, the clinical significance of miR-192 and the correlation between the expression of miR-192 and ZEB2 protein. Methods: The expression levels of miR-192 and ZEB2 mRNA in 30 colorectal carcinoma samples, 30 corresponding cancer-adjacent tissue samples (from the edge of tumor ≥5 cm), 25 colorectal adenoma samples, and 15 normal tissue samples were quantified using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). ZEB2 protein expression was determined using Western blot. The relationship between the miR-192 and clinicopathological factors, miR-192 and ZEB2 protein expression was analyzed. Results: Significant upregulation of miR-192 expression and reduction of ZEB2 mRNA and protein expression were identified in CRC tissues, compared to cancer-adjacent tissues, colorectal adenoma samples, and normal tissues (P<0.05). Low miR-192 levels were significantly associated with lymph node (P=0.021) and distant metastasis (P=0.023). An inverse relationship between miR-192 and ZEB2 protein expression was identified in CRC group (r=-0.365, P<0.05). Conclusion: MiR-192 downexpression was correlated with CRC metastasis. MiR-192 may play a role in the development and progression of CRC through ZEB2.

Key words: MicroRNA, Colorectal cancer, Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2, Clinical significance