KDM6A suppresses proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in prostate cancer cells.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

Prostate cancer is one of the most common male malignancies worldwide. KDM6A, a histone H3K27 demethylase, has been implicated in various cancers; however, its specific functions in prostate cancer remain controversial. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of KDM6A in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

METHODS

We analyzed the GEO public database and conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to examine the function of KDM6A in CRPC.

RESULTS

KDM6A expression was downregulated in CRPC compared with primary prostate cancer. KDM6A acted as a tumor suppressor; its depletion promoted proliferation and migration of prostate cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Suppression of KDM6A activated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) via HMGB2, thereby regulating the invasive behavior of prostate cancer. EMT is known to play a critical role in CRPC progression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal the functional role of KDM6A in CRPC and suggest its potential utility in exploring novel therapeutic strategies for CRPC.