LncRNA TEX41 promotes the proliferation and migration of squamous cell carcinoma cells by upregulating Atg5 via sponging miR-153-3p

This study was conducted to investigate if lncRNA TEX41 could have effects on SCC. The aim was to confirm that TEX41 could promote SCC progression by up-regulating Atg5 via miR-153-3p. TEX41, miR-153-3p, and Atg5 mRNA expression were examined by qRT-PCR. Western blot was used to examine Atg5 protein expression. CCK-8 assay and transwell assay were used to examine SCC cell proliferation and migration. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to forecast the binding site of miR-153-3p with Atg5 or TEX41. TEX41 expression was enhanced in SCC tissues and cells. TEX41 knockdown could reduce the SCC cell proliferation and migration. There was a binding site between TEX41 and miR-153-3p, and TEX41 negatively adjusted miR-153-3p in SCC cells. Atg5 was bonded with miR-153-3p, which was adjusted by TEX41. Our study revealed that TEX41 expression was increased in SCC cell lines and tissues. TEX41 could aggravate SCC progression through adjusting the miR-153-3p/Atg5 axis, providing a key target for SCC.