Investigating the effects of pcDNA3 polybia-MP1 on the apoptosis induction in lung cancer cell line

Polybia-MP1 is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) with significant anticancer efficacy. The aim of this study is to investigate the changes in the expression levels of the long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) MALAT1, LUCAT1, and BANCR in lung cancer cells after stimulation with pDNA/Polybia-MP1 complexes. This research seeks to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying Polybia-MP1's anticancer effects, specifically focusing on the involvement of these lncRNAs in lung cancer pathology and treatment response. The nucleic acid sequence of polybia-MP1 was inserted into the pcDNA3.1(+) Mammalian Expression Plasmid. The correctness of cloning was evaluated using PCR and enzyme digesting methodologies. The vectors were introduced into cells by transfection using LipofectamineTM2000. The A549 cancer cells were assessed using flow cytometry and wound healing studies. The expression levels of lncRNAs and apoptotic genes were evaluated using real-time PCR, with a significance threshold of P < 0.05. The pDNA/polybia-MP1 vector was effectively produced, and the gene sequence exhibited absolute consistency (100% similarity) with the polybia-MP1 gene. The proportions of early apoptosis, late apoptosis, necrosis, and viable A549 cells in the pDNA/polybia-MP1 group were 26%, 17%, 3%, and 54%, respectively. The RT-PCR analysis revealed that the introduction of pDNA/polybia-MP1 into A549 cells led to a reduction in the expression of PCA3, MALAT1, and LUCAT1 lncRNAs, as compared to the control group treated with PBS. Moreover, it increased the transcription of BANCR long non-coding RNA. The results showed a significant increase in the activity of transcription factors involved in programmed cell death after treatment with pDNA/polybia-MP1 (**P < 0.01). The study's findings suggest that pDNA/polybia-MP1 has the potential to significantly alter gene transcription in cancer cells, particularly concerning lncRNAs engaged in cell apoptotic pathways. The pDNA/polybia-MP1 compound, with its potent anticancer properties, has the capacity to induce apoptosis in cells, thereby offering a promising avenue for cancer treatment.