EPB41L5 promotes EMT through the ERK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide and is characterized by activation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EPB41L5 is regarded as a key factor in the progression of EMT and metastasis in various kinds of cancers, although the role and mechanism of EPB41L5 in ESCC have not yet been elucidated. In addition, tumor cells can acquire enhanced aggressiveness and a mesenchymal phenotype through phosphorylation of MAPK signaling pathway components. Here, we intend to explore whether EPB41L5 can regulate the EMT process in ESCC and reveal whether the MAPK signaling pathway is involved. Methods: We compared the expression level of EPB41L5 with the prognostic characteristics of 100 ESCC patients to hypothesize the role of EPB41L5 in the progression of ESCC. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to verify the conclusions from the analysis of clinical specimens and investigate the underlying mechanism by which EPB41L5 contributes to ESCC. Results: We discovered that EPB41L5 was overexpressed in ESCC and that higher EPB41L5 expression was related to higher TNM stage, a higher incidence of lymphatic metastasis and worse prognosis. Moreover, using ESCC cells and nude mouse models, we found that EPB41L5 promoted EMT, proliferation, migration and invasion in ESCC. Mechanistically, activation of phosphorylation in the ERK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway was involved in the EPB41L5-mediated regulation of EMT. Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings suggest that EPB41L5 plays a critical role in the regulation of EMT and the progression of ESCC.