PABPN1 regulates mRNA alternative polyadenylation to inhibit bladder cancer progression

Liang Chen1, Wei Dong1, Menghao Zhou1

  • 1Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.

Cell & Bioscience
|March 6, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Poly(A) binding protein nuclear 1 (PABPN1) downregulation promotes bladder cancer (BC) progression by altering alternative polyadenylation. Targeting PABPN1 may offer new therapeutic strategies for BC patients.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Bladder cancer (BC) progression to muscle-invasive disease involves key molecular events that remain largely uncharacterized.
  • Approximately 10-20% of BC patients develop muscle-invasive disease, highlighting an unmet need for understanding its progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of poly(A) binding protein nuclear 1 (PABPN1) in bladder cancer (BC) progression.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which PABPN1 influences BC aggressiveness and alternative polyadenylation (APA).

Main Methods:

  • Investigated PABPN1 expression levels in bladder cancer.
  • Utilized overexpression and knockdown techniques to assess PABPN1's impact on BC cell behavior.
  • Analyzed PABPN1's binding preferences to polyadenylation signals (PASs) and its downstream effects on signaling pathways.

Main Results:

  • PABPN1 was found to be downregulated in bladder cancer.
  • PABPN1 overexpression decreased BC aggressiveness, while its knockdown increased it.
  • PABPN1 regulates APA by influencing the choice of polyadenylation signals (PASs), impacting Wnt signaling, cell cycle, and lipid biosynthesis pathways.

Conclusions:

  • PABPN1-mediated alternative polyadenylation (APA) plays a significant role in bladder cancer (BC) progression.
  • PABPN1 downregulation contributes to BC aggressiveness.
  • Pharmacological targeting of PABPN1 presents a potential therapeutic avenue for bladder cancer (BC).

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