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Metformin Inhibits the Development of Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma through Circ_0003214-Mediated

Xiaoqiang Chen1, Chen Li1, Wei Chen1

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou 350001, Fujian, China.

Journal of Oncology
|August 2, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Metformin inhibits hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) progression by targeting the circ_0003214/miR-489-3p/ADAM10 pathway. This finding offers a potential therapeutic strategy for HSCC treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) is an aggressive cancer with limited treatment options.
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying HSCC progression is crucial for developing effective therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anti-cancer effects of metformin in HSCC.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanism involving circ_0003214, miR-489-3p, and ADAM10.

Main Methods:

  • Cell viability, colony formation, apoptosis, and cell cycle assays were performed.
  • Gene and protein expression levels were analyzed using qRT-PCR and Western blot.
  • In vivo studies in animal models were conducted to validate findings.

Main Results:

  • Metformin suppressed HSCC cell viability and colony formation, inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
  • The circ_0003214/miR-489-3p/ADAM10 axis was identified as a key pathway regulated by metformin.
  • Metformin demonstrated tumor growth inhibition in vivo via this pathway.

Conclusions:

  • Metformin exhibits anti-cancer properties in HSCC by modulating the circ_0003214/miR-489-3p/ADAM10 pathway.
  • This pathway represents a potential therapeutic target for HSCC treatment.

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