MiR-128-1-5p inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell apoptosis via targeting PRKCQ in colorectal cancer

Previous studies have indicated that miR-128 was downregulated in a variety of cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the role and the underlying molecular mechanisms of miR-128 in CRC still remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the level of miR-128-1-5p in CRC patients and to explore both the effects and regulatory mechanisms of miR-128-1-5p in the malignancy of CRC. Real-time PCR and western blot were used to analyze the expression levels of miR-128-1-5p and the direct downstream target protein tyrosine kinase C theta isoform (PRKCQ). Cell Counting Kit-8, clone formation, TUNEL apoptosis assays, and subcutaneous tumor model were performed to investigate the malignant ability of colon cancer cells. A luciferase assay was performed to explore whether miR-128-1-5p could directly bind to 3’-UTR region of PRKCQ. In the present study, we detected the decreased expression and clinical significances of miR-128-1-5p in colorectal cancer tissues and cell lines. Functional experiments revealed that miR-128-1-5p inhibited cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis and that PRKCQ was identified as a target of miR-128-1-5p and involved in miR-128-1-5p-mediated proliferation and apoptosis. In conclusion, our results showed that miR-128-1-5p reduced CRC growth by modulating PRKCQ expression and is a possible new therapeutic target for patients with CRC.