An oncogenic role of Agrin in regulating focal adhesion integrity in hepatocellular carcinoma.

ABSTRACT: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally. The identity and role of cell surface molecules driving complex biological events leading to HCC progression are poorly understood, hence representing major lacunae in HCC therapies. Here, combining SILAC quantitative proteomics and biochemical approaches, we uncover a critical oncogenic role of Agrin, which is overexpressed and secreted in HCC. Agrin enhances cellular proliferation, migration and oncogenic signalling. Mechanistically, Agrin's extracellular matrix sensor activity provides oncogenic cues to regulate Arp2/3-dependent ruffling, invadopodia formation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition through sustained focal adhesion integrity that drives liver tumorigenesis. Furthermore, Agrin si

SUBMITTER: Chakraborty S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4317502 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature