MiR-499a-5p Promotes the Proliferation and Migration of Uterine Leiomyoma Cells by Activating the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the functional role and underlying mechanism of miR-499a-5p in the progression of uterine leiomyoma (ULM).

METHODS

Expression levels of miR-499a-5p were analyzed in ULM tissues and cells. Functional assays were conducted to evaluate the effects of miR-499a-5p knockdown or overexpression on cellular proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and cell cycle progression. The involvement of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was assessed using pathway-specific protein markers and lithium chloride (LiCl) as a chemical activator.

RESULTS

miR-499a-5p was significantly upregulated in ULM tissues and cells. Its knockdown inhibited proliferation and migration, induced apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. Additionally, downregulation of miR-499a-5p suppressed the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, an effect that was reversed by LiCl treatment.

CONCLUSION

miR-499a-5p facilitates the development of uterine leiomyoma by activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. These findings suggest that miR-499a-5p may serve as a promising molecular biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for ULM management.