Integrated analysis of long non-coding RNAs and mRNAs associated with malignant transformation of gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Background: Malignant transformation of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is correlated with poor prognosis; however, the underlying biological mechanism is not well understood. Methods: In the present study, low-risk (LR) GISTs, GISTs categorized as high-risk based on tumor size (HBS), and on mitotic rate (HBM) were collected for RNA sequencing. Candidate hub lncRNAs were selected by Oncomine analysis. Expression of a selected hub lncRNA, DNM3OS, and its correlation with patients’ prognosis were analyzed using FISH staining, followed with the determination of function and underlying mechanism. Results: Our results revealed a series of key pathways and hub lncRNAs involved in the malignant transformation of GISTs. Oncomine analysis revealed a tight association between clinical signatures and DNM3OS and suggested that DNM3OS is a hub lncRNA that is involved in the Hippo signaling pathway. In addition, DNM3OS was upregulated in HBS, HBM, and HBS/M GIST and correlated with worse prognosis in patients with GISTs. In addition, DNM3OS promoted GIST cell proliferation and mitosis by regulating the expression of GLUT4 and CD36. Conclusions: These results improve our understanding of the malignant transformation of GISTs and unveil a series of hub lncRNAs in GISTs.