CHARACTERIZING THE ROLE OF FREE FATTY ACID RECEPTORS (FFARs) IN BREAST CANCER CELLS

Abstract

Characterizing the role of Free Fatty Acid Receptors (FFAR 1, 2 and 3) in Breast cancer cells FFARs have been implicated to play regulatory roles in normal physiological and pathological conditions. Studies in the past have shown onco regulatory roles for these receptors. Our investigation shows, Over-expressing and stimulating FFAR2 & 3 with Propionate in MDA-MB-231 significantly upregulates as well as downregulates the essential EMT markers, E Cadherin and Vimentin respectively, along with curtailed cell invasion. Our data on proliferative pathway implies, FFAR3 over-expression reduces the activation of MAPK/ERK, while FFAR2 is identified to inactivate YAP by upregulating LATS2 protein levels. On a contrast, FFAR1 is directly involved in enhancing ERK activation and EMT-related process like increased migration and morphological changes in MDA-MB-231 (high endogenous FFAR1 expression) and FFAR1 over-expressed MCF-7. In conclusion, FFAR2 & FFAR3 actuate cancer inhibiting pathways, whereas FFAR1 favors tumorigenesis in breast cancer.