MicroRNA-1 and MicroRNA-21 individually regulate cellular growth of non-malignant and malignant renal cells

Abstract

Background/Aim: Due to its poor prognosis, it is increasingly necessary to understand the biology of renal cell cancer (RCC). Therefore, we investigated the role of microRNAs miR-1 and miR-21 in the growth of RCC cells compared to that of non-malignant renal cells. Materials and Methods: Four malignant cell lines (Caki-1, 786-O, RCC4, A498) were examined regarding their cell growth, microRNA and telomerase expression, and were compared to nonmalignant RC-124 renal cells. Results: Inconsistencies appeared in the panel of RCC cells regarding antiproliferative and proliferative properties of miR-1 and miR-21, respectively. Notably, and most likely due to immortaliziation, nonmalignant RC-124 cells exhibited telomerase expression and activity. Conclusion: MiR-1 and miR-21 functionality in cancer progression, particularly in tumor growth, may be more dependent on the individual cellular context and may reflect RCC heterogeneity. Thus, both microRNAs, in combination with other stratifying biomarkers, may be useful in terms of RCC diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment response.