BATF is involved in the malignant phenotype and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of colon cancer cells via ERK/PD-L1 signaling

Abstract

Objective. Transcription factors have emerged as primary regulators in colon cancer. Basic Leucine Zipper Transcription Factor (BATF) was found to be differentially expressed in colon cancer. This study aimed to explore the impact of BATF on the malignant phenotype and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Methods. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, the correlation between BATF and patients’ overall prognosis was analyzed. BATF expression in epithelial and colon cancer cells was evaluated. By knocking down its levels in colon cancer cells, its effects on the malignant phenotype, apoptosis, EMT progression, and ERK/PD-L1 were evaluated. Cells were treated with ERK/PD-L1 agonists, and the BATF cell regulation was re-examined. Results. BATF levels were negatively correlated with patients’ overall survival. BATF is upregulated in colon cancer cell lines, and BATF knockdown in HCT116 cells suppressed the malignant cellular phenotypes (proliferation, migration, and invasion) and increased apoptosis. BATF knockdown inhibited EMT and ERK/PD-L1 signaling activation, whereas upon agonist treatment, BATF potency was disrupted. Conclusion. This study revealed that BATF is involved in the malignant phenotype and EMT of colon cancer cells, and this process may be mediated by ERK/PD-L1 signaling