miR-524-5p suppresses cervical cancer progression through targeting the LRP6/Wnt/β-catenin axis

As a leading gynecological malignancy worldwide, cervical cancer represents a major threat to female health. Further research is essential to elucidate its pathogenic mechanisms and develop effective therapeutic interventions. The objective is to examine the correlation between miR-524-5p and both the diagnostic and prognostic aspects of cervical cancer, while also elucidating its underlying mechanisms. Quantitative detection of miR-524-5p and LRP6 levels were performed via RT-qPCR, ELISA and Western blot. The diagnostic and prognostic potential of serum miR-524-5p in cervical cancer was assessed using ROC, Kaplan-Meier curves, and multivariate Cox regression. Bioinformatic analysis coupled with dual-luciferase reporter assays validated the direct targeting of LRP6 by miR-524-5p. The CCK-8 and Transwell assays were employed to assess the biological behavior of cervical cancer cells. Serum miR-524-5p was downregulated in cervical cancer compared to normal controls, and it had higher diagnostic value and worse survival outcome. LRP6 was identified as a direct target of miR-524-5p and demonstrated negative regulation by it. The upregulation of miR-524-5p was found to exert a marked inhibitory effect on the proliferative capacity of CaSki and HeLa cells, as well as their migratory and invasive potential. Additionally, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was inhibited. However, co-transfection of miR-524-5p and LRP6 overexpression partially reversed the repressive effect of miR-524-5p mimic on cell biological functions. miR-524-5p demonstrates predictive potential for early detection and prognosis in cervical cancer. Functionally, it affects the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by directly targeting LRP6, thereby inhibiting malignant cell behavior.