Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 23, 2026
Impedance-based Real-time Measurement of Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion
Published on: April 2, 2020
Proteomic identification of the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K as irradiation responsive protein related
Judith Strozynski1, Julia Heim1, Sacarin Bunbanjerdsuk1
1Molecular Tumor Biology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
Abstract:
Irradiation resistance is a major obstacle of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) therapy, limiting treatment success and patient survival. The aim of our experiments was to identify irradiation-regulated proteins as potential drug targets. Two established HNSCC cell lines (HNSCCUM-01T and HNSCCUM-02T) were treated with a single 8Gy (Gray) fraction of irradiation. Changes in cellular protein expression were studied after 24h by means of 2D-electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF-mass spectrometry. Ninety-four differentially expressed proteins were identified. The expression levels of four proteins were regulated similarly in both cell lines after irradiation treatment, i.e., GRP78, PRDX, ACTC, and the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK), suggesting a relevant role during irradiation response. hnRNPK as a p53 interacting protein was verified by Western blotting and immunocytochemical staining as well as functionally analyzed. Knock-down by the use of siRNA resulted in only slightly reduced viability, however, migratory activity was strongly reduced. Combined application of siRNA against hnRNPK and irradiation reduced migration almost completely. We conclude that hnRNPK is potentially implicated in the radiogenic response of HNSCC. The inhibition of hnRNPK might reduce the metastasizing potential of HNSCC especially in combination with irradiation and suggest that this molecule should be further evaluated in this context.
Biological Significance:
We showed completely impaired migration of irradiated hnRNPK-knock-out HNSCC cells, suggesting this molecule as a potential drug target in combined treatment schedules.
Insights
Irradiation resistance in head and neck cancer is a challenge. Researchers identified heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) as a key protein. Inhibiting hnRNPK with irradiation may reduce cancer spread.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Radiotherapy Research
Background:
- Irradiation resistance significantly impacts head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treatment outcomes.
- Identifying novel therapeutic targets is crucial for improving patient survival in HNSCC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify proteins regulated by irradiation in HNSCC.
- To evaluate potential drug targets for overcoming radioresistance in HNSCC.
Main Methods:
- Two HNSCC cell lines were irradiated (8Gy).
- Differential protein expression was analyzed using 2D-electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF-mass spectrometry.
- hnRNPK function was assessed via siRNA knockdown, Western blotting, and immunocytochemistry.
Main Results:
- Ninety-four differentially expressed proteins were identified.
- GRP78, PRDX, ACTC, and hnRNPK showed consistent regulation across both cell lines post-irradiation.
- hnRNPK knockdown significantly reduced HNSCC cell migration, especially when combined with irradiation.
Conclusions:
- hnRNPK plays a role in the radioresponse of HNSCC.
- Targeting hnRNPK, particularly in combination with irradiation, may inhibit HNSCC metastasis.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Small GTPases - Ras and Rho
Three regulatory proteins control their activity:
01:21Cell Polarization by Rho Proteins
01:07MAPK Signaling Cascades
01:09Cell Migration