MiR-195-5p targets CDK1 to regulate new DNA synthesis and inhibit the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Abstract Background CDK1 is critical for cell viability and plays an important role in biological events. MiR-195 is pivotal in pathogenesis and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). But the association between CDK1 and miR-195 in HCC is underexplored. Methods Gene expression was assayed via qRT-PCR, and corresponding protein levels were assessed via Western blot. Cell cycle was assayed through flow cytometry. DNA replication was detected by EDU staining. Cell proliferation was determined via plate colony formation assay. Targeting relationship between miR-195-5p and CDK1 was analyzed by bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase gene assay. DNA damage was marked by immunofluorescence staining. Results CDK1 was overexpressed in HCC tissues and cells. Silencing CDK1 modulated cell cycle of HCC cells and inhibited DNA replication and proliferation. In HCC cells, miR-195-5p reduced CDK1 level, inhibited the G1 phase-to-S phase transition, induced DNA damage response, and inhibited DNA replication and proliferation. Conclusion MiR-195-5p targeted CDK1 and repressed synthesis of new DNA in HCC cells, thus restraining HCC cell proliferation.