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Semi-quantitative Detection of RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase Activity of Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Protein
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Human telomerase reverse transcriptase is a promising target for cancer inhibition in squamous cell carcinomas

Young-Jin Park1, Eun-Kyoung Kim1, Sook Moon1

  • 1Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Cancer Research Institute and Brain Korea PLUS 21 Project, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Anticancer Research
|November 5, 2014
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Down-regulating human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in oral cancer cells reduced their invasion and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression. This suggests hTERT is a potential therapeutic target for oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent cancer.
  • Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is often overexpressed in cancer cells, contributing to their proliferation and invasiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of down-regulating human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) on the invasive properties of oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines.
  • To explore the potential of targeting hTERT as a therapeutic strategy for oral cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a genetically-engineered squamous carcinoma cell line (IHOK) overexpressing hTERT.
  • Assessed in vivo tumorigenicity using an orthotopic xenograft model in nude mice.
  • Evaluated anti-invasive activity via transwell invasion assays and real-time PCR for matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) following hTERT knockdown.

Main Results:

  • Down-regulation of hTERT expression significantly reduced the invasive activity of oral cancer cells.
  • hTERT knockdown led to decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).
  • These findings were validated in the HSC3 oral squamous carcinoma cell line.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting hTERT demonstrates an anti-invasive effect in oral squamous cell carcinoma.
  • Inhibition of hTERT may represent a promising therapeutic approach for oral cancer treatment.
Keywords:
Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)immortal oral keratinocytesmulti-step processsquamous cell carcinoma

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