FN1 from cancer-associated fibroblasts orchestrates pancreatic cancer metastasis via integrin-PI3K/AKT signaling.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is closely linked to the remodeling of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) within the tumor microenvironment (TME), though the precise molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the role of CAFs in PDAC metastasis.

Methods

We integrated transcriptomic (GSE183795) and single-cell sequencing data (GSE156405) to screen for core genes associated with PDAC. In vitro co-culture models, functional assays (Transwell migration, Western blotting, qRT-PCR), and clinical data analysis were employed.

Results

Multi-omics analysis identified FN1 as a pivotal hub gene in the PI3K pathway, highly expressed in metastatic CAF subsets. In vitro experiments confirmed that FN1 activate

SUBMITTER: Zhu X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12267018 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature