OBJECTIVETo evaluate the application of DNA vector-based RNA interference for silencing LMP-1 expression in EBV-positive nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) C611 cells and analyze the inhibiting effects of LMP-1 silencing on metastatic property of NPC cells.

METHODSDNA vectors with LMP-1 shRNA template were transfected into C611 cells. After G418 selection, a LMP-1 silenced sub-clone named C611L was isolated. Effect of LMP-1 inhibition on its metastatic properties was evaluated by cell adhesion, invasion and wound healing assays.

RESULTSshRNA vector mediated stable RNAi against LMP-1 in C611 cells. Loss of LMP-1 significantly altered cell motility, substratum adhesion and transmembrane invasion ability.

CONCLUSIONStable suppression of LMP-1 induced by shRNA vector can inhibit metastatic properties of NPC cells.