Matrix stiffness regulates NPC invasiveness by modulating a mechanoresponsive TRPV4-Nox4-IL-8 signaling axis.

ABSTRACT: Matrix stiffness is a critical determinant of tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), a mechanosensitive calcium channel, regulates angiogenesis and stromal stiffness in various tumors. However, it is unclear whether matrix stiffness regulates the invasiveness of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells through TRPV4. In this study, we found that increased matrix stiffness of NPC tissues correlated with advanced tumor stages. Furthermore, simulation of high matrix stiffness in vitro upregulated TRPV4, and increased the migration, invasion, and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of NPC cells. Knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of TRPV4 significantly suppressed the calcium influx in NPC cells, and inhibited their invasiveness and E

SUBMITTER: Zhang P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11786026 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature