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Updated: Aug 23, 2025

Molecular Profiling of the Invasive Tumor Microenvironment in a 3-Dimensional Model of Colorectal Cancer Cells and Ex vivo Fibroblasts
10:33

Molecular Profiling of the Invasive Tumor Microenvironment in a 3-Dimensional Model of Colorectal Cancer Cells and Ex vivo Fibroblasts

Published on: April 29, 2014

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Overexpression of ELL-associated factor 2 suppresses invasion, migration, and angiogenesis in colorectal cancer

Ming-Liang Feng1, Can Wu1, Hui-Jing Zhang1

  • 1Department of Endoscopy, The First Hospital Affiliated to China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China.

World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology
|October 31, 2022
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

ELL-associated factor 2 (EAF2) acts as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer (CRC). Low EAF2 expression correlates with poor survival, suggesting its role in inhibiting CRC invasion and metastasis.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • ELL-associated factor 2 (EAF2) is an androgen-responsive gene with known tumor suppressor functions in various cancers.
  • EAF2 frameshift mutations and inactivation have been linked to colorectal cancer (CRC) heterogeneity and microsatellite instability-high CRC.
  • The precise molecular mechanisms of EAF2 in CRC invasion and metastasis remain largely unelucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the clinical significance of EAF2 protein expression in CRC.
  • To investigate the in vitro effects of EAF2 on CRC cell invasion, migration, and angiogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of EAF2 protein expression in colorectal adenocarcinoma and adjacent tissues from advanced CRC patients.
  • In vitro studies using plasmid transfection to assess EAF2's impact on CRC cell invasion, migration, and angiogenesis.

Main Results:

  • EAF2 protein was found to be downregulated in tumor tissues of advanced CRC patients.
  • Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated a higher survival rate in patients with high EAF2 levels compared to those with low levels.

Conclusions:

  • EAF2 functions as a tumor suppressor in CRC, potentially inhibiting invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis.
  • EAF2 may exert its effects by regulating the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3/transforming growth factor-β1 pathway.
  • These findings offer a theoretical basis for targeted diagnosis and treatment strategies in CRC.
Keywords:
AngiogenesisColorectal cancerELL-associated factor 2InvasionMigrationSignal transducer and activator of transcription 3Transforming growth factor-β1

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