DNA hypomethylation and upregulated LINC00518 acts as a promoter and biomarker in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Background: LINC00518 acts as an oncogene in several cancers, but its function in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unclear. Materials & methods: The expression and methylation status of LINC00518 were analyzed by reviewing public databases. The ceRNA network and the relationship with tumor immunity of LINC00518 were analyzed using online tools and in vitro studies. Results: Upregulated LINC00518 was associated with poor clinicopathological characteristics of HNSCC. Silencing LINC00518 significantly inhibited the migration of HNSCC cells. LINC00518 might positively regulate HMGA2 via the ceRNA mechanism. Additionally, LINC00518 was negatively correlated with various immune cells and immunotherapy markers. Moreover, the upregulation of LINC00518 in HNSCC may be due to DNA hypomethylation. Conclusion: LINC00518 may be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for HNSCC.