Objective To analyze the antitumor effect of microRNA-144 (miRNA-144) gene overexpression on hepatocellular carcinoma mice and its influence on intestinal flora.
METHODS: Mouse transplanted ascites-type hepatocellular carcinoma was established. To observe the effects of miRNA-144 gene overexpression on the general condition, histopathological morphology of liver and intestine, the abundance and diversity of gut contents, and intestinal barrier function in mice with hepatocellular carcinoma. Occludin, ZO-1, miRNA-144 mRNA and Occludin, ZO-1 protein were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot.
Results The overexpression of miRNA-144 could improve the general physical condition of liver cancer mice, inhibit the development of liver cancer, improve the intestinal microecological environment and intestinal mucosal barrier function, and up-regulate Occludin, ZO-1, miRNA-144 mRNA and Occludin, Expression of ZO-1 protein.
Conclusion The overexpression of miRNA-144 can inhibit the development of primary liver cancer and improve the intestinal microecological environment and intestinal mucosal function in mice. The mechanism may be related to the up-regulation of Occludin and ZO-1 mRNA and protein expressions.