CircSSRP1 regulates SMAD3 to affect proliferation and apoptosis of human embryonic palatal mesenchymal cells in nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate by sponging miR-708-5p

It is currently widely accepted that NSCL/P is a complex genetic disorder caused by multiple environmental and genetic factors. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory roles of circSSRP1/miR-708-5p/SMAD3 axis in NSCL/P. Using bioinformatic analysis methods, we performed an integrated analysis of the Clariom D Human Assay and GSE42589 dataset to construct the NSCL/P associated circSSRP1/miR-708-5p/SMAD3 axis.

Subsequently, through validating the expressions of circSSRP1, miR-708-5p, and SMAD3 in NSCL/P tissues and matched normal control tissues, combined with in vitro experiments and other relevant approaches, we identified a novel circular RNA, circSSRP1. This molecule acts as a molecular sponge for miR-708-5p, thereby regulating the expression of SMAD3 and participating in the pathogenesis of NSCL/P.