Deciphering the Role of miR-30a-5p and DLGAP1 Gene in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the deadliest form of cancer worldwide. Understanding the mechanisms of lung cancer development is vital for targeted therapy advancements. This article explores the little-known role of the guanylate kinase-associated protein (GKAP), encoded by the Disks large-associated protein 1 (DLGAP1) gene, in NSCLC along with assessing microRNA-30a-5p's influence on DLGAP1 gene expression in the A549 cell line.

Experiments were conducted on A549 cells transfected with synthetic oligonucleotides. The luciferase assay was employed to confirm the binding site of miR-30a-5p to the 3'UTR of DLGAP1 mRNA. The role of miRNA-30a-5p mimic in regulating potential target gene expression at the protein and mRNA levels was studied by performing RT-qPCR and western blot analyses. The effects of DLGAP1 knockdown and miRNA-30a-5p mimic on cell viability and the cell cycle were evaluated using the MTT test and flow cytometry with annexin/iodide cell staining.

The luciferase assay indicated that miR-30a-5p has the ability to bind to the 3'UTR of DLGAP1 mRNA. RT-qPCR revealed that the overexpression of miR-30a-5p down-regulates DLGAP1 mRNA. Western blot analysis indicated that miR-30a-5p slightly reduces the level of the GKAP protein. Knockdown of DLGAP1 with synthetic oligonucleotides, as well as transfection with a miR-30a-5p mimic, significantly attenuates cell proliferation and increases the number of cells in the early and late stages of apoptosis.

Our findings reveal the antiproliferative effect of miR-30a-5p and DLGAP1 gene knockdown on A549 cancer cells, implying that these elements could be considered as therapeutic targets for personalized medicine in NSCLC patients.