Hypoxia facilitates the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells by inducing cancer-associated fibroblast-derived IL6

Neoplasma. 2021 Sep;68(5):1015-1022. doi: 10.4149/neo_2021_210308N296. Epub 2021 Aug 11.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignancy worldwide, and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Accumulating evidences indicate cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), abundant stromal cell population in the tumor microenvironment, play a key role in tumor development. Herein, we have successfully isolated CAFs and paired normal fibroblasts (NFs) from colorectal cancer tissues (n=10). By using a multiplex cytokine profiling assay, we have identified IL-6 as a major cytokine released by CAFs. Co-culturing of CAFs with CRC cell lines HCT116 or SW480 increases IL-6 release, and the secretion by CAFs can be further enhanced under hypoxia. By using the CCK-8 assay, we have found that HCT116 or SW480 cells treated with culture medium from CAFs, IL-6, or hypoxia showed a significant cell growth compared to control cells (p<0.01). Mechanistically, we have found that hypoxia could enhance the effect of the IL-6/STAT3 signaling on CRC cells, in part, through HIF-1a targeting PKM2. In conclusion, our data clearly proposes the interconnected mechanisms for constitutive activation of STAT3 signal by CAFs-derived IL-6 under hypoxia in colorectal cancer. The pharmacological inhibition of STAT3, PKM2, or HIF-1α can significantly reduce the oncogenic effect of IL-6, providing a potential therapeutic target for CRC patients.

MeSH terms

  • Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Colorectal Neoplasms*
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia
  • Interleukin-6 / metabolism*
  • Tumor Microenvironment

Substances

  • IL6 protein, human
  • Interleukin-6