miR‐4286 promotes prostate cancer progression by targeting the expression of SALL1

Abstract Background Prostate cancer (PCa) is a serious health threat for humans worldwide. Recent studies have revealed that microRNAs are associated with the progression of human cancers, including PCa. However, no study has been performed aiming to investigate the role of microNA‐4286 (miR‐4286) on PCa. Methods A quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction was conducted to analyze the expression level of miR‐4286 in PCa cells. The connection of miR‐4286 and spalt like transcription factor 1 (SALL1) was analyzed with a bioinformatic analysis tool, a dual‐luciferase activity reporter assay and western blotting. The effects of miR‐4286 and SALL1 on PCa cell behaviors were examined in vitro . Results We showed miR‐4286 expression was significantly increased in PCa cells compared to a normal cell line. Knockdown of miR‐4286 could inhibit PCa cell proliferation but promote cell apoptosis by targeting SALL1. Conclusions The results of the present study suggest that miR‐4286 overexpression represents a tumor promoter role in PCa.