Glycocalyx hyaluronan removal-induced increasing of cell stiffness delays breast cancer cells progression.

ABSTRACT: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells are rich in glycocalyx (GCX) that is closely correlated with the reorganization of cytoskeletal filaments. Most studies have focused on cell membrane glycoproteins in this context, but rarely on the significance of glycosaminoglycans, particularly the hyaluronan (HA)-associated GCX. Here, we reported that removal of GCX HA could significantly increase breast cancer cells (BCCs) stiffness, leading to impaired cell growth and decreased stem-like properties. Furthermore, we found that the delay of TNBC cells progression could be restored after the cells were re-softened. Meanwhile, in vivo studies revealed that hyaluronidase (HAase)-pretreated BCCs displayed reduced tumor growth and migration. Intriguingly, we identified that ZC3H12A, a zinc-finger R

SUBMITTER: Wang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11865421 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature