Downregulation of miR-1256 promotes breast cancer progression by targeting IL-22 and is associated with poor prognosis

Abstract Objectives Breast cancer (BC) poses a serious threat to women’s health, but its clinical prognosis is not ideal. miR-1256 has been shown to act as a tumor suppressor in various cancers, but its role in BC remains unknown. This study primarily explores the prognostic value of miR-1256 in BC. Methods The study included a total of 152 BC patients. RT-qPCR was employed to assay miR-1256 and interleukin-22 (IL-22) levels. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox Proportional-Hazards Model (Cox) analysis were utilized to assess prognostic value. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assays were used to study the proliferation and transfer capabilities of BC cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay for IL-22 protein content. The dual-luciferase reporter assay was employed to validate the relationship of miR-1256 with IL-22. Results miR-1256 level was significantly down-regulated in BC patients. The level of miR-1256 is closely related to clinical indicators, and high levels indicate a better prognosis. Overexpression of miR-1256 inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, IL-22 identified as a downstream target of miR-1256, is markedly up-regulated in BC patients and BC cells. Overexpression of IL-22 can reverse the suppression of malignant behavior in BC cells induced by miR-1256 mimic. Conclusions miR-1256 may inhibit malignant proliferation and transfer of BC cells by suppressing IL-22 levels. Furthermore, it holds promise as a potential target for clinical prognostication.