Long non-coding RNA FALEC promotes colorectal cancer progression via regulating miR-2116-3p-targeted PIWIL1

Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common digestive malignant tumors globally. Focally amplified lncRNA on chromosome 1 (FALEC) is a novel lncRNA that has been reported to be involved in many biological processes during carcinogenesis. However, its role in CRC remains poorly understood. Methods Gene expression at mRNA or protein level was measured by qRT-PCR or western blot, respectively. In vitro experiments including EdU, colony formation, flow cytometry, wound-healing and transwell assays, as well as in vivo xenograft experiment, were utilized to determine the functional role of FALEC in CRC. Relevant mechanical assays were performed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism. Results FALEC was aberrantly up-regulated in CRC. FALEC knockdown could impair CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, whereas facilitate cell apoptosis. MiR-2116-3p was revealed to be sponged by FALEC. PIWIL1 was identified as the target of miR-2116-3p. Mechanically, FALEC restored the expression of PIWIL1 via absorbing miR-2116-3p. MiR-2116-3p inhibition and PIWIL1 enrichment could counteract the anti-tumor impact induced by silenced FALEC on the oncogenic behaviors of CRC cells. Conclusion Our study revealed that FALEC promoted CRC progression via restoring the expression of miR-2116-3p-targeted PIWIL1, suggesting the potential application of targeting FALEC in the treatment of CRC.