Long non-coding RNA LINC00160 functions as a decoy of microRNA-132 to mediate autophagy and drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma via inhibition of PIK3R3.

The introduction of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has revolutionized the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, in the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a newly found lncRNA, LINC00160, on autophagy and drug resistance of HCC. Interaction among LINC00160, miR-132 and PIK3R3 was verified by dual luciferase reporter gene assay. Loss- and gain-of function experiments were conducted in HCC cells to explore the roles of LINC00160, miR-132 and PIK3R3 in HCC by determining cell viability, autophagy and apoptosis. Finally, tumorigenicity in nude mice was established to confirm the in vitro findings. LINC00160 and PIK3R3 were up-regulated but miR-132 was down-regulated in HCC tissues and cells. LINC00160 may regulate miR-132 and PIK3R3 was the target gene of miR-132. LINC00160 increased the expression of LC3I/LC3II and Atg5 but decreased the p62 expression, while silencing of LINC00160 or over-expression of miR-132 suppressed HCC cell viability, autophagy, drug-resistance and tumorigenicity in nude mice but promoted HCC cell apoptosis by inhibiting the PIK3R3 expression. Taken together, silencing of LINC00160 suppresses autophagy and drug resistance in HCC by regulating miR-132-targeted PIK3R3.