Effects of CD44 siRNA on inhibition, survival, and apoptosis of breast cancer cells

Abstract

Abstract Background Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. Despite the many advances that have been made in the treatment of patients, a large number of patients are still resistant to treatment. CD44 is one of the surface glycoproteins of BC cells that plays an important role in the proliferation of these cells and inhibition of their apoptosis. Therefore, targeting it can be a treatment way for BC patients. Methods In this study, the effect of anti-CD44 siRNA on proliferation, apoptosis, and migration rate of MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells was investigated. The techniques used in this study were MTT assay, RT-PCR, Flowcytometry. Results The rates of apoptosis and proliferation in CD44 siRNA-treated cells were higher and lower, respectively, compared to untreated cells. Also, cell migration was less in treated cells compared to untreated cells. CD44 siRNA also decreased the expression of CXCR4, c-myc, Vimentin, ROCK, and MMP-9. Conclusion Finally, it can be said that CD44 targeting can be a good treatment option to make BC cells more sensitive to apoptosis.