Estrogen receptors regulate galectin-3 in androgen-independent DU-145 prostate cancer cells

Author(s)

Souza, Deborah S. ; Macheroni, Carla ; Vicente, Carolina M. ; Cavalheiro, Renan P. ; Campo, Vanessa L. ; Porto, Catarina S.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ONCOLOGY REPORTS; v. 49, n. 5, p. 14-pg., 2023-05-01.

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of estrogen receptor (ER)alpha and ER beta, and galectin-3 (GAL-3) in migration and invasion of androgen-independent DU-145 prostate cancer cells, and to examine the regulation of the expression of GAL-3 by the activation of these receptors. Wound healing and cell invasion assays were performed using the control (basal level of cellular function) and treated DU-145 cells. At 24 h of treatment, 17 beta-estradiol (E2), the ER alpha-selective agonist, 4,4',4 ''-(4-propyl-(1H)pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol (PPT), or the ER beta-selective agonist, 2,3-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionitrile (diarylprepionitrile; DPN), increased the migration and invasion of the DU-145 cells. Pre-treatment with the ER alpha- and ER beta-selective antagonists blocked these effects, indicating that ER alpha and ER beta are upstream receptors regulating these processes. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining for the detection of the GAL-3 were performed using the control and treated DU-145 cells. Treatment of the DU-145 cells with E2, PPT or DPN for 24 h increased the expression of the GAL-3 compared to the control. Furthermore, a specific inhibitor of GAL-3 (VA03) inhibited the migration and invasion of DU-145 cells, indicating the involvement of the complex ER alpha/GAL-3 and ER beta/GAL-3 in the regulation of these processes. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that the activation of both ERs increases the expression and signaling of GAL-3, and promotes the migration and invasion of DU-145 cells. The findings of the present study provide novel insight into the signatures and molecular mechanisms of ER alpha and ER beta in DU-145 cells. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/01285-2 - Estrogen receptors and galectin-3 in androgen-independent prostate cancer cells
• Grantee: Catarina Segreti Porto
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants