Dihydroartemisinin inhibited tongue squamous cell carcinoma progression and tongue-to-lymph node metastasis through inhibiting RalB expression.

BACKGROUND

Lymph node metastasis is a key determinant of the poor survival rate in patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). Therefore, inhibiting lymph node metastasis is a primary strategy for TSCC treatment. Our previous research found that dihydroartemisinin (DHA) inhibited the migration in human tongue squamous carcinoma Cal-27 cells. However, the effect and mechanism of DHA on lymph node metastasis are unknown in TSCC.

METHODS

The expression level of Ras related GTP binding protein B (RalB) was measured in TSCC samples by immunohistochemical staining. Wound healing, invasion, and cell adhesion assays were used to investigate cell motility. Western blot was used to investigate RalB expression level. An orthotopic nude mouse model of TSCC was established to investigate the effect and mechanism of DHA on lymph node metastasis.

RESULTS

First, DHA inhibited the progression of tongue tumor and tongue-to-lymph node metastasis of TSCC. Secondly, DHA inhibited RalB expression level in vitro and in vivo. Finally, DHA inhibited tongue-to-lymph node metastasis through RALB.

CONCLUSIONS

DHA inhibited tongue-to-lymph node metastasis through RALB, providing a novel therapeutic strategy for TSCC metastasis.