Identification and Functional Analysis of miR-204-3p in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Insights into Target Gene and Expression Patterns in Indian Population- A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction
Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is a significant global health issue, originating from squamous cells in the oral cavity. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, plays a crucial role in promoting cell proliferation, metastasis, and invasion in OSCC. This study investigates the role of miR-204-3p in regulating TNF-α, exploring its potential as a therapeutic target and its impact on cancer progression.
Aim
The primary aim of this study is to explore the regulatory relationship between miR-204-3p and TNF-α in OSCC, focusing on miR-204-3p's potential role as a tumor suppressor and its implications for targeted therapies in OSCC.
Methods
Human genome sequences were obtained from NCBI, and OSCC-specific sequences were filtered to create a nucleotide database. miRNA reference sequences were sourced from miRBase, and miRNA targets were predicted using TargetScan based on conserved binding sites. The structural stability of precursor-miRNAs was validated using RNAfold. OSCC tissue samples were ethically collected, and total RNA was isolated using TRIzol. Gene expression levels of TNF-α and miR-204-3p were analyzed using qRT-PCR, with statistical analysis performed using SPSS.
Results
The study identified hsa-miR-204-3p as a regulator of TNF-α, characterized by a stable stem-loop structure. qRT-PCR analysis revealed significant downregulation of miR-204-3p and upregulation of TNF-α in OSCC tissues compared to normal tissues.
Conclusion
hsa-miR-204-3p may act as a tumor suppressor in OSCC by targeting TNF-α, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for OSCC treatment.