α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor interaction with G proteins in breast cancer cell proliferation, motility, and calcium signaling.

ABSTRACT: Chronic smoking is a primary risk factor for breast cancer due to the presence of various toxins and carcinogens within tobacco products. Nicotine is the primary addictive component of tobacco products and has been shown to promote breast cancer cell proliferation and metastases. Nicotine activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) that are expressed in cancer cell lines. Here, we examine the role of the α7 nAChR in coupling to heterotrimeric G proteins within breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Pharmacological activation of the α7 nAChR using choline or nicotine was found to increase proliferation, motility, and calcium signaling in MCF-7 cells. This effect of α7 nAChR on cell proliferation was abolished by application of Gαi/o and Gαq protein blockers. Specifically, application of the Gα

SUBMITTER: Oz M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10368273 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature