Introduction of basic fibroblast growth factor gene into mouse renal cell carcinoma cell line enhances its metastatic

H Miyake1, I Hara, K Yoshimura

  • 1Department of Urology, Kobe University School of Medicine, Japan.

Cancer Research
|May 15, 1996
PubMed

Insights

Basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) overexpression enhances renal cell carcinoma invasion and metastasis, likely by increasing matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) production. This study clarifies FGF-2

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a significant health concern.
  • The role of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) in RCC malignancy is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the specific role of endogenous FGF-2 in the malignant progression of renal cell carcinoma.
  • To determine if FGF-2 influences invasion, metastasis, and matrix metalloproteinase production in RCC.

Main Methods:

  • Transfection of the FGF-2 gene into a mouse RCC cell line (RenCa).
  • In vitro invasion assays and zymography to assess invasiveness and MMP-2 production.
  • In vivo studies involving intravenous and subcapsular injection in syngeneic mice to evaluate metastatic potential.

Main Results:

  • FGF-2-transfected cells showed a 3- to 4-fold increase in invasive potential in vitro.
  • Elevated matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) production was observed in FGF-2-transfected cells.
  • FGF-2 overexpression led to a >10-fold increase in lung metastases and additional metastases to the liver and lymph nodes in vivo.
  • No significant differences in cell proliferation or tumor growth were observed.

Conclusions:

  • Endogenous FGF-2 plays a critical role in the invasion and metastasis of renal cell carcinoma.
  • FGF-2 likely promotes RCC malignancy through the upregulation of MMP-2 production.
  • Targeting FGF-2 may offer a therapeutic strategy for advanced renal cell carcinoma.