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E2F7/Beclin-1 Pathway: Influencing Autophagy and EMT in ccRCC

Junlin Zhao1, Xinyi Yan2, Dongmei Zhang1

  • 1Department of Pathology, Taiyuan Central Hospital, Peking University First Hospital, Taiyuan Hospital.

Applied Immunohistochemistry & Molecular Morphology : AIMM
|October 6, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study reveals that high E2F7 expression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is linked to reduced autophagy and EMT markers. Silencing E2F7 promotes these protective pathways, suggesting E2F7 as a potential therapeutic target in ccRCC.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Biology

Background:

  • Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) pathogenesis involves complex molecular interactions.
  • Understanding the interplay between autophagy, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and specific molecular pathways is crucial for ccRCC research.
  • The role of the E2F7/Beclin-1 pathway in ccRCC progression requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of the E2F7/Beclin-1 pathway on autophagy and EMT in human ccRCC.
  • To explore the relationship between E2F7 expression and clinical pathologic characteristics in ccRCC.
  • To validate the interaction between E2F7 and Beclin-1 in ccRCC.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 24 ccRCC and adjacent tissue samples using immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and RT-qPCR.
  • Assessment of E2F7, Beclin-1, LC3, and E-cadherin expression at protein and mRNA levels.
  • In vitro studies using ccRCC cell lines with E2F7 overexpression and inhibition (si-E2F7).

Main Results:

  • ccRCC tissues showed significantly higher E2F7 expression compared to adjacent tissues.
  • Expression of autophagy markers (Beclin-1, LC3) and EMT marker (E-cadherin) was significantly decreased in ccRCC tissues.
  • Silencing E2F7 led to increased expression of Beclin-1, LC3, and E-cadherin.

Conclusions:

  • A strong inverse correlation exists between E2F7 expression and Beclin-1, LC3, and E-cadherin in ccRCC.
  • Elevated E2F7 expression is associated with advanced clinical and pathologic stages of ccRCC.
  • E2F7 directly interacts with Beclin-1, highlighting its role in regulating autophagy and EMT in ccRCC.
Keywords:
Beclin-1E2F7EMTautophagyccRCC

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