NEAT1 promotes the development of high myopia by targeting miR-28-3p to regulate human scleral fibroblasts

Abstract Objectives High myopia (HM) can lead to serious complications that are hazardous to the health of adolescents. LncRNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) and miR-28-3p exhibit abnormal expression in multiple ocular structures. Investigating the effects of NEAT1 and miR-28-3p on human corneal fibroblasts (HSF) may provide new theoretical foundations and directions for myopia management. Methods 102 patients with HM and 100 patients with myopia were included. The expression of NEAT1, miR-28-3p, transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β1) and collagen Ι in aqueous humor was assessed by RT-qPCR. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry were used to detect cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Dual luciferase reporter (DLR) and RNA Immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were detected the target-binding relationship of NEAT1 and miR-28-3p. Results NEAT1 levels were higher and miR-28-3p levels were notably downregulated in the HM group than control. NEAT1 binds to miR-28-3p target and the levels were negatively correlated. Elevated NEAT1 suppressed cellular activity, markedly reducing TGF-β1 and collagen I levels. Knockdown of NEAT1 increased miR-28-3p expression, enhanced cell proliferation, reduced apoptosis, and boosted extracellular matrix synthesis. Conversely, silencing miR-28-3p significantly decreased cellular viability and extracellular matrix production. Conclusions Patients with HM have elevated levels of NEAT1. High NEAT1 levels suppress cellular activity and inhibit extracellular matrix production. Following NEAT1 silencing, miR-28-3p levels increase, thereby enhancing HSF cellular activity and promoting extracellular matrix production. This may delay HM progression.