RUNX1-MUC13 Interaction Activates Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Implications for Colorectal Cancer Metastasis

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health challenge, often characterized by late-stage metastasis and poor prognosis. The Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) plays a dual role as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor in various cancers, including CRC. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms of RUNX1 in CRC, particularly its direct roles, are not fully understood. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the role of RUNX1 in CRC progression and its interaction with Mucin 13 (MUC13) as a potential regulatory target. Methods: RUNX1 expression was analyzed in CRC tissues and cell lines compared to controls. In vitro and in vivo assays were conducted to assess the effects of RUNX1 overexpression and knockdown on cell behavior. ChIP-seq and RNA-seq analyses were performed to identify RUNX1 targets, with a focus on MUC13. Results: RUNX1 expression was significantly upregulated in CRC tissues and cells, correlating with advanced pathological characteristics and poor patient outcomes. RUNX1 overexpression enhanced CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and G2/M phase arrest, while its knockdown had the opposite effects. MUC13 was identified as a direct transcriptional target of RUNX1, with its expression contributing to the activation of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway. Disruption of MUC13 partially reversed the malignant phenotypes induced by RUNX1. Conclusion: RUNX1 promotes CRC progression by upregulating MUC13 and activating the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. This RUNX1-MUC13 axis represents a potential therapeutic target for managing CRC.