circ_0006988 promotes gastric cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion through miRNA-92a-2-5p/TFAP4 axis

<b>Aim:</b> To explore precise function and underlying mechanism of circ_0006988 in gastric cancer (GC).<b>Materials & methods:</b> GC tissues were collected clinically, and GC cells were purchased from the company. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to detect mRNA and protein expression. Functional analysis was performed through CCK-8, Transwell and scratch experiment. Binding relationship was validated through dual luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. HGC-27 cells were subcutaneously injected into mice to construct a xenograft tumor model.<b>Results:</b> In GC tissues and cells, circ_0006988 overexpressed, promoting proliferation, migration and invasion. MiRNA-92a-2-5p downregulation or <i>TFAP4</i> overexpression weakened effects of circ_0006988 silencing on GC progression.<b>Conclusion:</b> circ_0006988 facilitates GC development through miRNA-92a-2-5p/TFAP4 axis.