In vitro analysis of microRNA-26a in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells.

microRNA (miRNA)‑26a‑loaded liposomes were prepared in the present study for effective treatment of leukemia. The results demonstrated that miRNA‑26a reduced the viability of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells in a concentration‑dependent manner. Cells treated with miRNA‑26a‑loaded liposomes exhibited increased rates of apoptosis, as determined by flow cytometry and Hoechst 33342 staining. Western blot analysis revealed an increased apoptotic effect of miRNA‑26a‑loaded liposomes compared with control. Treatment with these liposomes resulted in significant downregulation of the expression of the miRNA‑26a target genes, myeloid cell leukemia 1 and cyclin‑dependent kinase 6. Taken together, the results of the present study indicate that miRNA‑26a exerts apoptosis‑inducing and anticancer effects on leukemia cells, suggesting therapeutic potential. This approach may be possible to extrapolate to other neoplasms, including lymphomas and acute myeloid leukemia.