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DNA Vector-based RNA Interference to Study Gene Function in Cancer
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DNA Vector-based RNA Interference to Study Gene Function in Cancer

Published on: June 4, 2012

Inhibiting tumor growth of colorectal cancer by blocking the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor

Zhicheng Lui1, Qiang Ma, Xianghui Wang

  • 1Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, P.R. China.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine
|December 4, 2009
PubMed

Insights

RNA interference targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3) effectively suppressed colorectal cancer cell growth and lymphangiogenesis. This study demonstrates VEGFR3 as a viable target for inhibiting tumor metastasis.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3) is implicated in tumor metastasis.
  • VEGFR3 presents a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of VEGFR3 in tumor growth using RNA interference (RNAi).
  • To evaluate the efficacy of VEGFR3 inhibition in colorectal carcinoma (CRC).

Main Methods:

  • Three small interfering RNA (siRNA) sequences targeting VEGFR3 were designed and cloned into expression plasmids.
  • Human colorectal carcinoma (CRC) LoVo cells were stably transfected with VEGFR3 siRNA.
  • Tumorigenicity and lymphangiogenesis were assessed in vitro and in a tumor xenograft model in nude mice.

Main Results:

  • Stable transfection of VEGFR3 siRNA significantly reduced VEGFR3 protein expression in LoVo cells.
  • VEGFR3 inhibition potently suppressed tumor cell proliferation and lymphangiogenesis in vitro.
  • Tumor growth was significantly inhibited in mice bearing LoVo cells with VEGFR3 siRNA compared to controls.
  • Immunohistochemical analysis showed decreased vessel density and VEGFR3 expression in tumors.

Conclusions:

  • RNAi-mediated silencing of VEGFR3 is an effective strategy to inhibit colorectal cancer growth.
  • Targeting VEGFR3 reduces tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis, offering a potential therapeutic approach for CRC metastasis.

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