Abrine inhibits cervical cancer progression by targeting UGT8

Chunyan Liu1, Changyan Dong1, Luyun Qu1

  • 1Yantai Yuhuangding Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, China.

Tissue & Cell
|July 15, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

UDP-glycosyltransferase 8 (UGT8) is upregulated in cervical cancer, promoting tumor growth and malignancy. The compound Abrine inhibits cervical cancer progression by targeting UGT8, offering a potential therapeutic strategy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Understanding cervical cancer molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing new therapeutic targets.
  • Novel therapeutic agents are needed for effective cervical cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of UDP-glycosyltransferase 8 (UGT8) in cervical cancer development.
  • To explore the therapeutic potential of Abrine in targeting UGT8 for cervical cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Analyzed UGT8 mRNA levels in cervical cancer tissues using GEO public microarrays.
  • Detected UGT8 protein expression via immunohistochemical staining.
  • Manipulated UGT8 expression in cervical cancer cell lines and treated with Abrine, assessing effects in vitro and in vivo using xenograft models.

Main Results:

  • UGT8 was highly expressed in cervical cancer tissues, correlating with disease severity.
  • UGT8 overexpression promoted cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemoresistance.
  • Abrine inhibited cancer cell progression by down-regulating UGT8 expression and impeding tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusions:

  • UGT8, a key enzyme in galactosylceramide synthesis, is upregulated in cervical cancer and promotes malignancy.
  • Abrine demonstrates therapeutic potential by targeting UGT8 and inhibiting cervical cancer progression.

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