miR-196b promotes lung cancer cell migration and invasion through the targeting of GATA6

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been proven to regulate gene expression at the protein translation level. miRNA abnormal expression has been associated with the development of lung cancer. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the mechanism of miR-196 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The miR-196b and GATA-6 (GATA6) expression levels were examined in NSCLC by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. Transwell assay was used to assess cell migration and invasion. Moreover, the specific target of miR-196b in NSCLC was verified by the luciferase reporter assay. The expression of miR-196b was higher in both NSCLC tissues and cells than the normal levels. Specifically, the miR-196b mimic group in NSCLC cells markedly promoted cell migration and invasion, while the miR-196b inhibitor group exhibited the opposite effect. Furthermore, GATA6 was verified as a specific target of miR-196b in NSCLC cells and GATA6 could attenuate the migratory and invasive ability of NSCLC cells regulated by miR-196b. In addition, the relationship between GATA6 and miR-196b expression was negatively correlated in NSCLC tissues. Thus, miR-196b enhanced NSCLC cell migration and invasion via the downregulation of GATA6, indicating its potential application in NSCLC diagnosis and therapy.