Ferroptosis inhibition via the ROS-GPX4 axis drives microplastic-induced malignant progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Microplastics (MPs), as emerging environmental pollutants, have been closely linked to cancer development and progression. However, their specific role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms by which polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) promote NPC malignancy.

Methods

Cellular uptake of PS-MPs was examined by confocal microscopy in NPC cells and NP69. Proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated by CCK-8, EdU, colony formation, wound healing, and Transwell assays. In vivo effects were tested in xenograft and lung-metastasis models with PS-MPs exposure via drinking water. Mechanistic investigations included RNA-seq, qRT-PCR, Western blot, ROS detection, immunofluorescence, and pharmacologic

SUBMITTER: Deng X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12903729 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature