Circ_HECW2 regulates LPS‐induced apoptosis of chondrocytes via miR‐93 methylation

INTRODUCTION: Circ_HECW2 plays a key role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced signal transduction, which is critical in osteoarthritis (OA). Thus, we analyzed the role of Circ_HECW2 in osteoarthritis. METHODS: The expression of Circ_HECW2 and miR‐93 was examined using reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cell apoptosis was evaluated using Annexin V‐FITC Apoptosis Detection Kit. RESULTS: Circ_HECW2 and miR‐93 were inversely correlated, with Circ_HECW2 upregulated and miR‐93 downregulated in OA and LPS‐induced chondrocytes. Circ_HECW2 overexpression inhibited miR‐93 expression and increased methylation of miR‐93 coding gene. Cell apoptosis analysis showed that Circ_HECW2 overexpression increased LPS‐induced chondrocyte apoptosis, while MiR‐93 overexpression reversed the effects of Circ_HECW2 on chondrocyte apoptosis. CONCLUSION: In summary, our data revealed that the Circ_HECW2 is highly expressed in OA and might inhibit miR‐93 expression through methylation to affect LPS‐induced chondrocyte apoptosis.