The negative regulation of miR-149-5p in melanoma cell survival and apoptosis by targeting LRIG2

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of diverse biological processes in tumor progression including melanoma. LRIG2 is reported as an oncogene in cancer, however, little is known regarding the molecular and functions of LRIG2 in melanoma. In this study, we reported that LRIG2 expression was higher in melanoma tissues and cell lines and was regulated by miR-149-5p. Furthermore, a luciferase reporter assay and rescue experiment indicated that miR-149-5p directly targeted LRIG2 by binding its 3'UTR. The overexpression of miR-149-5p significantly suppressed melanoma cell proliferation, colony formation, and promoted cell apoptosis. These results suggest that miR-149-5p acts as a suppressing molecule and may be a good method for melanoma therapy.