Estimation of miRNA 208 effect in inducing Epithelial-Mesenchymal transition by targeting CDH2 in breast cancer patients of Iraqi population

Abstract

Breast cancer stands as the most frequently identified cancer in women and continues to be a prominent factor in cancer-related deaths worldwide. One crucial element in the development and advancement of various cancers, including breast cancer, is a tiny non-coding RNA molecule referred to as MicroRNA-208 (miR-208). In this research, the focus is on examining the effects of miR-208 on cell mobility and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast cancer, aiming to understand its potential as an oncogene. To investigate miR-208 expression in breast cancer tissues, a study was carried out, utilizing 25 benign and 25 malignant tissue samples from Iraqi women. this study extracted total RNA from these specimens and employed SYBR green-based real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technology to quantify the levels of miR-208 expression. In the in vitro RT-PCR analysis of miR-208 in the malignant tumor samples, it was observed that 12 out of 25 exhibited significantly higher levels of miR-208 gene expression. Additionally, the bioinformatic prediction pointed to CDH2 as a potential target gene of miR-208. The interaction between miR-208 and CDH2 resulted in the upregulation of N-cadherin expression. This finding holds great importance as it provides insights into the mechanisms underlying breast cancer progression. The ability of miR-208 to target CDH2 seems to promote cell migration and invasion, implying its potential role as an oncogene in the development of breast cancer. In conclusion, the research investigation has found evidence of an association between miR-208 and the CDH2 gene, revealing its role in breast cancer susceptibility and progression among some Iraqi women.