Stem cells international
Fibrinogen Alpha Chain (FGA) Associates With Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, Stemness, and the USP-Catenin Complex in Colorectal Cancer
By Lin H, Chen W and Li Q.
Abstract
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) progression is heavily driven by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the acquisition of cancer stem cell (CSC) properties. Elucidating the specific molecular drivers and dynamic indicators underlying these processes is crucial for advancing CRC management.
Methods
The clinical significance and diagnostic value of fibrinogen alpha chain (FGA) were evaluated using TCGA data, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and paired pre- and postoperative serum samples. The biological functions of FGA were assessed in HCT116 cells through Transwell and 3D spheroid formation assays. Immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry (IP-MS) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses were utilized to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms.