Targeting of miR-31/96/182 to the Numb gene during head and neck oncogenesis

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This study investigates whether miR-31, miR-96, and miR-182 are involved in targeting Numb during HNSCC. Methods: The expression of miR-31/96/182 in tumor tissues was analyzed. Reporter assay, knockdown, expression, and oncogenic analysis were carried out in cell lines. Results: Upregulation of miR-31/96/182 was detected in tumor tissues. In addition, advanced tumors showed higher expression levels of these miRNAs. The expression of these miRNAs was upregulated after treatment with areca ingredients (P <.01 or P <.001). These miRNAs directly targeted the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) sequence of the Numb gene. An increased migration and invasion of HNSCC cells was associated with the exogenous expression of miR-31/96/182 (P <.01 or P <.001), and this was reverted by expression of Numb. Conclusion: This study provides new evidence demonstrating that there is frequent and concordant upregulation of miR-31, miR-96, and miR-182 during HNSCC and these miRNAs co-target Numb.