Non-junctional Cx32 mediates anti-apoptotic and pro-tumor effects via epidermal growth factor receptor in human cervical cancer cells.

ABSTRACT: The role of connexin proteins (Cx), which form gap junctions (GJ), in progression and chemotherapeutic sensitivity of cervical cancer (CaCx), is unclear. Using cervix specimens (313 CaCx, 78 controls) and CaCx cell lines, we explored relationships among Cx expression, prognostic variables and mechanisms that may link them. In CaCx specimens, Cx32 was upregulated and cytoplasmically localized, and three other Cx downregulated, relative to controls. Cx32 expression correlated with advanced FIGO staging, differentiation and increased tumor size. In CaCx cell lines, Cx32 expression suppressed streptonigrin/cisplatin-induced apoptosis in the absence of functional GJ. In CaCx specimens and cell lines, expression of Cx32 upregulated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression. Inhibition o

SUBMITTER: Zhao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5520707 | biostudies-literature | 2017 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature