Knockdown of lncRNA LINC00958 inhibits the proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells by miR-204-3p/KIF2A axis

Abstract Background: LINC00958, a newly identified lncRNA, has been reported to be closely linked to tumorigenesis in multiple cancers. However, its specific role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear.Methods: The expression of LINC00958 was determined by RT-qPCR analysis. Cell proliferation and migration were evaluated by CCK-8 and transwell assays, respectively. Xenograft tumor models were established to examine the effect of LINC00958 on tumor growth in vivo. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to determine the interaction between LINC00958 and miR-204-3p and the interaction between miR-204-3p and KIF2A.Results: We found that LINC00958 was up-regulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Down-regulation of LINC00958 inhibited cell proliferation and migration in vitro and suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Mechanically, we revealed that LINC00958 influenced NSCLC progression partly by sponging miR-204-3p and regulating KIF2A expression.Conclusions: Our study provided new insights into the role of LINC00958 as a promising prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target for NSCLC.