Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to participate in the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, how lncRNA deleted in lymphocytic leukaemia 2 (DLEU2) contributes to NSCLC remains undocumented. The clinical significance of lncRNA DLEU2 and miR-30a-5p expression in NSCLC was analysed by using fluorescence in situ hybridization and TCGA cohorts. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments as well as a NSCLC tumour model were executed to determine the role of lncRNA DLEU2 in NSCLC. DLEU2-sponged miR-30a-5p was verified by luciferase reporter, and RIP assays. Herein, the expression of lncRNA DLEU2 was elevated in NSCLC tissues, and its high expression or low expression of miR-30a-5p acted as an independent prognostic factor of poor survival and tumour recurrence in NSCLC. Silencing of lncRNA DLEU2 repressed the tumorigenesis and invasive potential of NSCLC, whereas re-expression of lncRNA DLEU2 showed the opposite effects. Furthermore, lncRNA DLEU2 harboured a negative correlation with miR-30a-5p expression in NSCLC tissues and acted as a sponge of miR-30a-5p, which reversed the tumour-promoting effects of lncRNA DLEU2 by targeting putative homeodomain transcription factor 2 in NSCLC. Altogether, lncRNA DLEU2 promoted the tumorigenesis and invasion of NSCLC by sponging miR-30a-5p.
KEYWORDS: DLEU2, NSCLC, growth, invasion, miR-30a-5p