IGFBP2 drives epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma via activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

ABSTRACT: Metastasis has emerged as a major impediment to achieve successful therapeutic outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nonetheless, the intricate molecular mechanisms governing the progression of HCC remain elusive. Herein, we present evidence highlighting the influence exerted by insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) as a potent oncogene driving the malignant phenotype. Our investigation reveals a marked elevation of IGFBP2 expression in primary tumors, concomitant with the presence of mesenchymal biomarkers in HCC. Through in vitro and in vivo experimentation, we demonstrate that the overexpression of IGFBP2 expedites the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and facilitates the metastatic potential of HCC cells, chiefly mediated by the Wnt/β-catenin

SUBMITTER: Chen X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10644524 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature