In vitro and In vivo Based Multi-Target Therapy and Prognostic Bio-modeling in Liver Cancer

Madiha Jabeen Abbasi1, Rashid Abbasi2, Ding Xianfeng1,3

  • 1School of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China.

Abstract

Insights

This study identifies TERT as a key gene for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) drug discovery, revealing its therapeutic potential through network analysis and molecular simulations. Findings support biomarker-based treatments for improved HCC diagnosis and management.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genomics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a major global health concern due to its high malignancy and complex causes.
  • Challenges in early detection and treatment stem from an incomplete understanding of HCC's molecular landscape.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate cancer regulatory networks and gene interactions in HCC.
  • To identify potential therapeutic targets and evaluate anti-cancer drug activity, particularly against TERT.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized machine learning, system biology, CRISPR-Cas9, RNAi, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and dynamics simulations.
  • Investigated five key genes (CTNNB1, TTN, TERT, ALB, OBSCN) and their associated factors.
  • Performed in vitro verification using MTT assays on HepG2 cell lines.

Main Results:

  • Identified significant genetic alterations and enrichment in oncogenic pathways, including stem cell proliferation and transferase activity.
  • TERT emerged as a promising target for HCC drug discovery, showing high binding energy with ambrisentan in docking and dynamics studies.
  • Cytotoxicity of ambrisentan against HepG2 cells was confirmed via MTT assay.

Conclusions:

  • Discovered effective pharmacological targets by understanding genetic mechanisms in HCC.
  • Biomarker-based treatments offer precise diagnostics for HCC genetics and progression.
  • Integrated network analysis and molecular dynamics provide a foundation for HCC therapeutics.