Heparin-binding growth factor (HDGF) drives radioresistance in breast cancer by activating the STAT3 signaling pathway

J Transl Med. 2021 Aug 10;19(1):344. doi: 10.1186/s12967-021-03021-y.

Abstract

Although reports implicate radioresistance as an important obstacle for the management of breast cancer, its molecular mechanism is elusive. Herein, we found that high HDGF levels are expressed significantly in breast cancer and exhibit a positive association with poor survival prognosis. Heparin-binding growth factor (HDGF) was upregulated in radioresistant breast cancer cells, however, its knockdown could reduce breast cancer radioresistant both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, the binding of RXRα to HDGF promoter blocked HDGF transcriptional activity, consequently inhibiting breast cancer radioresistance. The enhanced radioresistant activity of HDGF is induced by TKT and STAT3, impacting the STAT3-Tyr705 and STAT3-Ser727 phosphorylation and STAT3 transcriptional activity. Notably, HDGF depletion renders radioresistant hypersensitive to the drug that targets STAT3 phosphorylation. This article demonstrates the novel function of HDGF as a promising molecular target for predicting radioresistance in breast cancer.

Keywords: Breast cancer; HDGF; Radioresistance; STAT3 signaling pathway.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Female
  • Heparin / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • STAT3 Transcription Factor
  • Signal Transduction
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A

Substances

  • STAT3 Transcription Factor
  • STAT3 protein, human
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Heparin