Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of cancer progression, prompting our investigation into the specific function of miR-630 in pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs). Analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression data in PCSCs revealed downregulation of miR-630 and upregulation of PRKCI, implying a potential role for miR-630 in PCSC function and tumorigenicity.
Results: Functional assays confirmed that miR-630 directly targets PRKCI, leading to the suppression of the Hedgehog signaling pathway and consequent inhibition of PCSC self-renewal and tumorigenicity in murine models. This study unveiled the modulation of the PRKCI-Hedgehog signaling axis by miR-630, highlighting its promising therapeutic potential for pancreatic cancer (PC) treatment.
Conclusions: MiR-630 emerges as a pivotal regulator in PCSC biology, opening up new avenues for targeted interventions in PC. The inhibitory effect of miR-630 on PCSC behavior underscores its potential as a valuable therapeutic target, offering insights into innovative treatment strategies for this challenging disease.
Keywords: Hedgehog signaling pathway; PRKCI; Pancreatic cancer; Self-renewal ability; Stem cell characteristics; microRNA-630.
© 2024. The Author(s).