Background: Heat-shock proteins (HSPs) as well as microRNAs have been identified to orchestrate crucial mechanisms in prostate cancer (PCa) progression and treatment resistance. Due to cytoprotective properties of HSPB1 we analyzed molecular mechanisms of drug resistance in PCa cell culture systems, and notably found HSPB1 functionality linked to microRNA miR-1 activities.
Materials and methods: HSPB1 and miR-1 levels were genetically modified in PCa cell lines and alterations in molecular and cellular responses were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and proliferation assays.
Results: Our data provided for the first time evidence that HSPB1 regulates miR-1 expression, and subsequently restores oncogenic signaling pathways of androgen receptor (AR) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGFB1).
Conclusion: Our data point towards HSPB1 and miR-1 involvement in development of castration-resistant PCa and therefore represent promising targets for anticancer therapy of advanced PCa.
Keywords: Prostate cancer; heat-shock protein HSPB1; microRNA miR-1; oncogenesis.
Copyright© 2014 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved.