A novel USP4 inhibitor that suppresses colorectal cancer stemness by promoting β-catenin and Twist1 degradation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The high mortality rate of metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) is primarily attributed to resistance to chemotherapy, where cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a crucial role. Deubiquitinating enzymes are essential regulators of CSC maintenance, making them potential targets for eliminating CSCs and overcoming chemotherapy resistance. This study aims to identify key deubiquitinating enzymes regulating CSCs and drug resistance of CRC.

Methods

RNA sequencing was performed to examine the mRNA expression of known deubiquitinating enzymes in CRC tissues from patients with alternate response to chemotherapy. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were performed to evaluate the function of USP4 in regulation of stemness and drug sensitivity in CRC. High-throughput virtual scree

SUBMITTER: Li F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11762077 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature