Mir-29a Promotes the Migration of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Abstract

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a tumor in the oral cavity and around oral mucosa. Mir-29a level was differentially expressed in OSCC patients. However, whether its exact role and function in OSCC remains to be further elucidated. Our study investigated the effect of Mir-29a on the migration of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to oral squamous cell carcinoma cells (OSCCs). Mir-29a level was measured in OSCCs and BMSCs by real-time quantitative PCR and its relationship with Panc-1 was verified by dual luciferase reporter gene. After up-regulation of Mir-29a or treatment with Panc-1 siRNA, BMSCs migration to OSCCs was assessed by transwell assay and Panc-1 and Mir-29a were measure. Mir-29a level was downregualted in OSCCs and Panc-1 was upregulated in BMSCs. Panc-1 and Mir-29a was negatively correlated and Mir-29a could bind and target Panc-1. Down-regulation of Panc-1 inhibited the migration of BMSCs to OSCCs and elevated Mir-29a level promoted cell migration. After co-transfection of Mir-29a inhibitor and Panc-1 siRNA, the inhibited cell migration function can be restored. In conclusion, Mir-29a promotes the migration of BMSCs to OSCCs through targeting Panc-1.