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Inhibition of Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) triggers cell apoptosis via ROS-caused mitochondrial dysfunction in

Ya Feng1, Tianjiao Li1, Zhoujun Lin1

  • 1State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, No. 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin, 300350, People's Republic of China.

Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology
|February 22, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) inhibition reduces colorectal cancer (CRC) cell viability and migration. This study highlights PLK1 as a promising therapeutic target for CRC treatment, with BI6727 showing potential.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent malignancy with poorly understood non-mitotic roles of Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1).
  • PLK1 is crucial for cell cycle regulation, including chromosome segregation, centrosome maturation, and cytokinesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the tumorigenic effects of PLK1 in colorectal cancer.
  • To explore the potential of PLK1 as a therapeutic target for CRC treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized GEPIA database and immunohistochemistry to assess PLK1 expression in CRC.
  • Employed RNAi and the small molecule inhibitor BI6727 to inhibit PLK1.
  • Assessed cell viability, migration, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ROS levels using MTT, colony formation, transwell, and flow cytometry assays.
  • Evaluated PLK1 inhibition effects in preclinical models, including bioluminescence imaging and xenograft tumor models.

Main Results:

  • PLK1 was significantly accumulated in CRC tissues compared to adjacent healthy tissues.
  • PLK1 inhibition reduced CRC cell viability, migration, and colony formation, while inducing apoptosis.
  • PLK1 inhibition led to increased ROS, decreased Bcl2/Bax ratio, mitochondrial dysfunction, and Cytochrome c release, initiating apoptosis.

Conclusions:

  • PLK1 plays a significant role in CRC pathogenesis.
  • PLK1 inhibition demonstrates therapeutic potential for CRC.
  • The PLK1 inhibitor BI6727 represents a potential novel therapeutic strategy for colorectal cancer.
Keywords:
ApoptosisBI6727Bcl2Colorectal cancerMitochondrial dysfunctionPLK1

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