LncRNA LINC00649 aggravates the progression of cervical cancer through sponging miR-216a-3p

Aim Increasing studies have revealed the participation of lncRNAs in the occurrence and development of cervical cancer. This study explored the influence of lncRNA LINC00649 in cervical cancer. Methods Expression of LINC00649 and miR-216a-3p in cervical cancer was detected by reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the clinical value of LINC00649 in cervical cancer. The roles of LINC00649 in cervical cancer cells were detected by transfecting siRNA through cellular function assays. Results LINC00649 expression was increased in cervical cancer tissues, especially in squamous histology, positive lymph node metastasis, and high-FIGO stage tissues. The higher expression of LINC00649 predicted a shorter survival rate for patients. LINC00649 could bind directly with miR-216a-3p. Silence of LINC00649 could enhance the expression of miR-216a-3p and suppress the cervical cancer cell proliferation abilities, migration capacities, and invasion power. Whereas, transfection of miR-216a-3p inhibitor partially reverses the above cellular activities changes in cervical cancer cells. Conclusions The LINC00649 expression may act as a prognostic predictor and may aggravate cervical cancer progression by targeting miR-216a-3p, providing potential therapeutic targets for patients with cervical cancer.