miRNA-381-3p Functions as a Tumor Suppressor to Inhibit Gastric Cancer by Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor-2.

MicroRNAs possess essential effects on gastric cancer (GC), whereas the underlying mechanisms have not been fully uncovered. The present work focused on investigating the role of miR-381-3p in GC cellular processes and the possible mechanisms. miR-381-3p levels within GC tissues and cells were measured through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). This study measured cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis through EdU, colony formation, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays separately. TargetScan was adopted to predict the miR-381-3p targets, whereas luciferase reporter assay was adopted for confirmation. miR-381-3p levels were decreased, whereas fibroblast growth factor receptor-2 () expression was increased in GC. miR-381-3p upregulation inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion and it promoted the apoptosis of GC cells. Further, overexpression partly reversed the miR-381-3p-mediated impacts on GC cellular processes. This study provides an experimental basis, suggesting the potential of using miR-381-3p as the novel marker for GC. Clinical Trial Registration number: 2020-05.