Mitochondrial fission regulator 2 promotes cell proliferation, migration and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma through regulating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Mitochondrial fission regulator 2 (MTFR2) is upregulated in multiple cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, its mechanistic role in HCC progression remains poorly understood.

Methods

MTFR2 expression in HCC tissues was analyzed using TCGA and GEO databases. Validation of MTFR2 expression levels in clinical samples and HCC cell lines was performed through qRT-PCR and western blot. Functional effects of MTFR2 overexpression and knockdown on HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were assessed via CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing, and transwell assays. In vivo tumor growth was evaluated in xenograft mouse models.

Results

MTFR2 was significantly overexpressed in HCC tissues and cell lines. Enhanced proliferation, migration, in

SUBMITTER: Sun Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12199495 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature