IKK inhibitor suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and induces cell death in prostate cancer

IB kinase (IKK)/nuclear factor B (NF-B) pathway activation is a key event in the acquisition of invasive and metastatic capacities in prostate cancer. A potent small-molecule compound, BMS-345541, was identified as a highly selective IKK and IKK inhibitor to inhibit kinase activity. This study explored the effect of IKK inhibitor on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis and metastasis in prostate cancer. Here, we demonstrate the role of IKK inhibitor reducing proliferation and inducing apoptosis in PC-3 cells. Furthermore, BMS345541 inhibited IB phosphorylation and nuclear level of NF-B/p65 in PC-3 cells. We also observed downregulation of the N-cadherin, Snail, Slug and Twist protein in a dose-dependent manner. BMS-345541 induced upregulation of the epithelial marker E-cadherin and phosphorylated NDRG1 at protein level. Moreover, BMS-345541 reduced invasion and metastasis of PC-3 cells in vitro. In conclusion, IKK has a key role in both EMT and apoptosis of prostate cancer. IKK inhibitor can reverse EMT and induce cell death in PCa cells. IKK was identified as a potential target structure for future therapeutic intervention in PCa.