[Expression of Concern] MUC1 is a downstream target of STAT3 and regulates lung cancer cell survival and invasion
Jingchun Gao1, Matthew J Mcconnell2, Bin Yu1
1Department of Thoracic Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
Abstract:
Following the publication of the above paper, it was drawn to the Editor's attention by a concerned reader that the Bcl‑2 protein bands shown for the HCC827 cell line in the western blots in Fig. 3A on p. 342 were unexpectedly similar to the Akt protein bands shown for the A549 cell line in Fig. 3B. In addition, the Bcl‑2 protein bands shown for the H358 and HCC827 cell lines (the left‑hand and middle gels) possibly contained a pair of mutually overlapping protein bands, and the β‑actin control bands featured in the left‑hand and middle lanes of Fig. 3A for the H358 and HCC827 cell lines, and the β‑actin control bands featured in the middle and right‑hand lanes for the H358 and HCC827 cell lines in Fig. 1C on p. 340, were similarly more similar than might have been expected. The authors were contacted by the Editorial Office to offer an explanation for this possible anomaly in the presentation of the data in this paper, although up to this time, no response from them has been forthcoming. Owing to the fact that the Editorial Office has been made aware of potential issues surrounding the scientific integrity of this paper, we are issuing an Expression of Concern to notify readers of this potential problem while the Editorial Office continues to investigate this matter further. [International Journal of Oncology 35: 337‑345, 2009; DOI: 10.3892/ijo_00000345].
Insights
This paper raises concerns regarding potential data presentation anomalies in western blots, specifically concerning Bcl-2 and Akt protein bands. The journal issued an Expression of Concern pending further investigation into scientific integrity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Concerns were raised regarding the presentation of western blot data in a published paper.
- Specific similarities were noted between Bcl-2 protein bands and Akt protein bands across different cell lines.
- Potential issues with beta-actin control bands were also identified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address potential anomalies in the western blot data presentation.
- To investigate concerns regarding the scientific integrity of the published findings.
- To inform readers of potential issues while an investigation is ongoing.
Main Methods:
- Review of western blot figures (Fig. 3A, Fig. 1C) from the original publication.
- Comparison of protein band appearances between different cell lines (HCC827, A549, H358).
- Contacting authors for explanation regarding observed data similarities.
Main Results:
- Unexpected similarities were observed between Bcl-2 protein bands (HCC827) and Akt protein bands (A549).
- Potential overlapping protein bands for Bcl-2 in H358 and HCC827 cell lines were noted.
- Similarities in beta-actin control bands across different figures and cell lines were identified.
Conclusions:
- The Editorial Office has identified potential issues with the scientific integrity of the paper.
- An Expression of Concern has been issued to alert readers to these potential problems.
- The journal is continuing its investigation into the matter.
Related Concept Videos
03:03mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
01:22PI3K/mTOR/AKT Signaling Pathway
02:23Abnormal Proliferation
01:20The JAK-STAT Signaling Pathway
01:15Receptor Downregulation in MVBs
The EGFR can initiate signaling pathways that lead to cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Overexpression of EGFR stimulates cells to proliferate. Excessive EGFR...
01:24Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply