Long Non-coding RNA LOC285194 Promotes Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Progression via the Apoptosis Signaling Pathway.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIM: To explore the molecular mechanism and clinical significance of a newly identified lncRNA LOC285194 in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: LOC285194 transcript levels were analyzed in EOC cells compared to normal cells. Small interfering RNAs were used to suppress LOC285194 expression. Levels of apoptosis-related proteins were determined by western blot. LOC285194 expression in ovarian cancer and non-tumor tissues were compared with clinicopathologic and survival data. RESULTS: Knockdown of LOC285194 decreased cell migration and proliferation, enhanced reactive oxygen species production and resulted in increased levels of proteins of the extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway. LOC285194 expression level was higher in ovarian cancer tissues compared to control. Overall survival was significantly shorter in patients with high LOC285194 expression. Lymph node metastasis and high LOC285194 expression were significant prognostic factors of mortality (HR=4.614 and 5.880; p=0.026 and p=0.002, respectively). CONCLUSION: LOC285194 can promote the progression of EOC via an anti-apoptotic mechanism. It may serve as a novel biomarker for predicting prognosis of EOC.