METTL7B promotes cell proliferation and metastasis in gastric cancer via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

BACKGROUND

Methyltransferase-like 7B (METTL7B) is a Golgi-associated methyltransferase linked to malignant progression of multiple tumors. However, its specific role and underlying mechanisms in gastric cancer remain unclear.

METHODS

METTL7B expression and its clinicopathological and prognostic significance in gastric cancer were assessed using bioinformatics and immunohistochemistry. Functional roles (proliferation, migration, and invasion) were evaluated using in vitro assays. Underlying mechanisms were explored via bioinformatics enrichment analysis and western blotting.

RESULTS

METTL7B expression was significantly upregulated in gastric cancer tissues and correlated with poor prognosis. Knockdown of METTL7B inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer cells. Mechanistically, knockdown of METTL7B suppressed the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

METTL7B is crucial in promoting gastric cancer progression via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, suggesting its potential as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in gastric cancer.