C3G down-regulation enhances pro-migratory and stemness properties of oval cells by promoting an epithelial-mesenchymal-like process.

ABSTRACT: Previous data indicate that C3G (RapGEF1) main isoform is highly expressed in liver progenitor cells (or oval cells) compared to adult mature hepatocytes, suggesting it may play an important role in oval cell biology. Hence, we have explored C3G function in the regulation of oval cell properties by permanent gene silencing using shRNAs. We found that C3G knock-down enhanced migratory and invasive ability of oval cells by promoting a partial epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). This is likely mediated by upregulation of mRNA expression of the EMT-inducing transcription factors, Snail1, Zeb1 and Zeb2, induced in C3G-silenced oval cells. This EMT is associated to a higher expression of the stemness markers, CD133 and CD44. Moreover, C3G down-regulation increased ov

SUBMITTER: Palao N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9576514 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature