The Influence of Alpha Kinase 2 Expression on Prognosis in Serous Ovarian Cancer Liver Metastasis

Abstract

Background. Globally, ovarian cancer is a leading contributor to cancer-related fatalities among women, with a notable concern being the occurrence of liver metastasis as a prevalent clinical complication. This study aims to investigate the potential impact of alpha kinase 2 (ALPK2) on ovarian cancer liver metastasis (OCLM), assessing its implications for patient prognosis and tumor advancement. Our research seeks to examine the prognostic significance of ALPK2 in individuals with OCLM and unravel the consequences of ALPK2 knockdown on the proliferation and invasion of ovarian cancer cells. Methods. A retrospective analysis of 49 OCLM cases from our medical center was conducted to evaluate the prognostic significance of ALPK2 through survival analyses. Experimental investigations involved the use of shRNA to knock down ALPK2 in ovarian cancer cell lines, with subsequent scrutiny of cellular changes. Results. Survival analyses revealed that ALPK2 functions as an independent adverse prognostic factor in OCLM (HR = 3.74, 95% CI: 1.34–10.42, and P = 0.012). Knockdown experiments indicated a reduction in cell proliferation and invasion capacities, potentially associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process. Conclusions. ALPK2 emerges as a crucial oncogene promoting tumors in OCLM. Its knockdown exhibits significant therapeutic potential by hindering cancer progression. Further investigations could solidify the role and therapeutic possibilities of ALPK2 in the treatment of ovarian cancer, particularly in cases involving liver metastasis.