Curcumin Promotes Mitochondrial Apoptosis of Cancer-derived Lung Cancer Stem Cells and Cisplatin Sensitization Through BH3-only Dephosphorylation

Background: Lung cancer’s mortality ranks first among other cancers. Several studies have shown the role of microRNAs in the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Purpose: This study investigates microRNA-1297’s (miR-1297) role in lung cancer. Materials and Methods: Cisplatin (DDP)-resistant cells A549/DDP and NCI-H460/DDP were utilized to measure cell proliferation and BH3-only expression. Results: miR-1297 was upregulated in A549/DDP and NCI-H460/DDP cells, and BH3-only was downregulated. DDP inhibited the proliferation of A549/DDP and NCI-H460/DDP cells. BH3-only is the target gene of miR-1297. BH3-only was upregulated by the miR-1297 inhibitor, resulting in increased cell apoptosis, impaired proliferation, and drug resistance. Conclusion: DDP resistance in lung cancer is associated with the miR-1297 level. Its downregulation induces DDP drug resistance by upregulating BH3-only.