PROONCOGENIC EFFECTS OF INHIBITING THE microRNA miR-106A IN SKIN MELANOMA CELLS IN VITRO

One of the regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level are miRNAs. Due to its multifunctionality, these molecules are considered as potential targets for controlling the biological behavior of tumor cells. To date, several thousand types of microRNAs have been identified and their expression profiles have shown significant during malignant transformation of cells. In this study, we have investigated the effect of miR-106a functional inhibition on the growth, viability and apoptosis of melanoma cells. Comparative analysis of expression profiles in melanona cells and in cells of melanocytic nevi identified by the use of microarray has revealed a significant increase in the miRNA expression level in melanoma cells. Despite this, inhibition of this molecule in melanoma cells has no antitumor effect on cell proliferation, viability, migration activity and apoptosis of melanoma cells, but increases invasive activity and the ability to form colonies. The paper discusses the importance of evaluating changes in miRNA levels in melanoma and other malignancies, relationship îf miR-106a with the pathogenesis of melanoma, as well as the possible role of miR-106a in other pathologies.