Specifically, NKX2–2-AS1 functions as a miRNA sponge to sequester miR-103, miR-107 and miR-548m, thereby maintaining the expression of their tumor-suppressive targets BTG2 (BTG anti-proliferation factor 2), LATS1 (large tumor suppressor kinase 1) and LATS2. The gene discussed is BTG2; the disease is neoplasm.