Abstract
Objective: Accumulating studies show the role of microRNAs in multiple human cancers. However, little is known about the role of microRNAs in nasopharyngeal cancers (NPC). Given the role of microRNAs in survival and death pathways in cancers, we hypothesized that the microRNAs may regulate the effects of cancer therapeutic agents.
Method: Tumor specific MicroRNA expressions were studied in vitro in primary human NC cells (CCL-30) treated with statins. The effects on cell survival, cell cycle, and apoptosis were examined.
Results: Recently, we showed the promising antitumor effects of statins in NPC via HMG Co-A pathway. Our new study examines the novel role of microRNAs in mediating the effects of statin in the inhibition of survival in NPC. Statins induced apoptosis and decreased survival of NPC. The regulation of tumor suppressor Let-7a was enhanced in cells treated with statins associated with decrease in the cell viability and proliferation, and increase in apoptosis in these cells. Further, we found that the miR-21 and miR-155 played a role in the regulation of apoptotic pathways in NPC.
Conclusion: Tumor-specific microRNAs, Let-7a, miR-21, and miR-155 play a role in the regulation of the disease process and the effects of cancer therapeutic agents in NPC.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.