CircRNA has_circ_0069313 induced OSCC immunity escape by miR-325-3p-Foxp3 axes in both OSCC cells and Treg cells.

INTRODUCTION

CircRNAs are engaged in the tumorigenesis and progression of oral squamous cancer cells (OSCC). However, the function and underlying mechanism of circRNAs on tumor-associated immunity escape are largely unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed the expression pattern of has_circ_0069313 in our in-house database and its correlation with OSCC prognosis. Immunohistochemistry was applied to detected PDL1 expression. RNA fluorescence hybridization was applied to detect subcellular location of circRNA. A luciferase activity assay was used to detect the interaction of has_circ_0069313 and miR-325-3p and its downstream target, Foxp3. Exosomes were collected to detect the exosomal circRNAs and co-culture assays were performed to detect the function of exosomal circRNAs on Tregs.

RESULTS

has_circ_0069313 was upregulated in OSCC tissues and predicts poor prognosis. has_circ_0069313 promotes immunity escape through inhibiting miR-325-3p-induced Foxp3 degradation. has_circ_0069313 is an exosomal circRNA and the transfer of has_circ_0069313 to Treg cells promotes the Treg function through maintaining Foxp3 levels.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that has_circ_0069313 induces OSCC immunity escape via the miR-325-3p-Foxp3 axis in both OSCC cells and Treg cells.