Long non-coding RNAs CASC9 and HOTAIR as biomarkers for squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HNSCC)

Introduction:

An altered regulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), that modify important cell-specific, molecular processes, is described in oncogenesis. Since only few is known about lncRNAs in squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the head and neck (HN), we want to identify and functionally characterize relevant lncRNAs in HNSCC.

Methods:

A combined research of the TANRIC database and literature identified CASC9 and HOTAIR as promising candidates. Therefore, an expression analysis by RT-qPCR was performed in 21 HNSCC-cell lines and in 98 HNSCC + 68 control specimen. For functional analysis, CASC9 was overexpressed using lentiviral vector transduction in low CASC9 expressing cell lines (HaCaT, FADU) and CASC9 expression was downregulated by shRNA in an CASC9 overexpressing cell line (UMSCC 14A). Proliferation and clonogenity were measured by colony building assays, chemosensitivität by MTT-Assay and migration by Ibidi-wound healing assay.

Results:

A marked overexpression of both lncRNAs was found in most tumor specimen and in 17 of 21 HNSCC cell lines. A combined expression analysis of both lncRNAs improved specifity of tumor detection. A clear overexpression of CASC9 also characterized PEC of other organs (bladder, cervix, lung, uterus) while a low expression was seen in prostate, renal and thyroid cancer. An influence of CASC9 regulation on proliferation, migration and clonogenity in HNSCC-cell lines could not be detected.

Conclusion:

The lncRNAs CASC9 and HOTAIR are specifically and clearly overexpressed in squamous cell carcinomas. Thus, they provide excellent biomarkers for these cancers.

Priv.-Doz. Dr. med. Kathrin Scheckenbach

Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Hals-Nasen-Ohrenk,

Moorenstr. 5, 40225

Düsseldorf

eMail: [e-mail]

Publikationsverlauf

Publikationsdatum:
23. April 2019 (online)