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RAB9A Plays an Oncogenic Role in Human Liver Cancer Cells

Pengfei Sun1, Lei Li1, Zhongchao Li1

  • 1Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong Fist Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 440 Jiyan Road, Huaiyin District, Jinan City, 250117 Shandong Province, China.

Biomed Research International
|May 19, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

RAB9A promotes liver cancer growth by enhancing cell proliferation and invasion. This protein activates AKT signaling pathways, suggesting RAB9A as a potential therapeutic target for liver cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • RAB9A, a Rab GTPase, facilitates mannose-6-phosphate receptor transport.
  • The role of RAB9A in liver cancer remains largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the function of RAB9A in human liver cancer.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of RAB9A's role in liver cancer progression.

Main Methods:

  • RAB9A expression was modulated using pcDNA3.1 plasmid and shRNA in Hep3b and HepG2 cells.
  • Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration were assessed using CCK-8, colony formation, apoptosis analysis, transwell, and wound healing assays.
  • Western blot analysis and pathway inhibition (BEZ235) were employed to study mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • RAB9A overexpression enhanced proliferation, clonality, invasion, and migration in liver cancer cells.
  • RAB9A inhibited apoptosis and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway activation.
  • RAB9A activated the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, and its inhibition partially reversed RAB9A's oncogenic effects.

Conclusions:

  • RAB9A exhibits a carcinogenic role in human liver cancer progression.
  • The AKT signaling pathway is partially involved in RAB9A-mediated liver cancer.
  • RAB9A represents a potential therapeutic target for liver cancer treatment.

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