CXCL3 promotes liver cancer progression by modulating the tumor microenvironment via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

ABSTRACT: CXCL3, a member of the CXC chemokine family, has been increasingly implicated in the progression of various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma, due to its role in immune and inflammatory responses within the tumor microenvironment. This study aimed to investigate the expression and function of CXCL3 in liver cancer and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms. A combination of bioinformatics analysis, ELISA, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, in vitro cell assays, and in vivo nude mouse models was employed to assess CXCL3 expression and function. The results showed that CXCL3 was significantly upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues and associated with reduced overall survival in patients. It promoted the proliferation, colony formation, and migration of liver cancer cells (Bel-

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12629499 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature