Abstract

Background Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been found to render pivotal effects in gastric cancer (GC). However, the effect of hsa_circ_0043691 in GC still needs to be further unveiled. Methods The contents of hsa_circ_0043691, miR-1294, and pre-leukemia transcription factor 3 (PBX3) were examined using qRT-PCR or Western blot assay. In vitro colony formation, transwell, wound healing, flow cytometry, tube formation assays, glutaminolysis corresponding kit and in vivo Xenograft mice model were utilized to evaluate cell functions. The relationship between miR-1294 and hsa_circ_0043691 or PBX3 was further verified. Results The levels of hsa_circ_0043691 and PBX3 were upregulated, whereas miR-1294 expression was diminished in GC tissues and cells. Hsa_circ_0043691 deficiency significantly inhibited GC cell progression and glutaminolysis metabolism. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0043691 was directly bound to miR-1294 to modulate PBX3 expression. Besides, silencing of hsa_circ_0043691 impeded tumor growth in vivo. Conclusion Hsa_circ_0043691 knockdown repressed GC malignant phenotypes by miR-1294/PBX3 axis, which exhibited a novel therapeutic target for GC treatment.