Multi-omics analysis reveals mechanism of Schisandra chinensis lignans and acteoside on EMT in hepatoma cells via ERK1/2 pathway

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a globally common Cancer, often presents late and shows high resistance to chemotherapy, resulting in suboptimal treatment efficacy. Components from traditional Chinese medicines have been recognized for their anti-cancer properties.

Objective: Exploring the mechanism of Schisandra chinensis Lignans and acteoside in suppressing Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in hepatoma cells through the Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinases (ERK)1/2 pathway and identifying biomarkers, molecular subtypes, and targets via multi-omics for precision oncology.

Methods: Proliferation was assessed using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays, with scratch and transwell assays for evaluating invasion and migration. Flow cytometry quantified Apoptosis rates. Expression levels of CCL20, p-ERK1/2, c-Myc, Vimentin, and E-cadherin/N-Cadherin were analyzed by Real-Time PCR and Western blot. Tumor volume was calculated with a specific formula, and growth.

Results: The Schisandra chinensis Lignans and acteoside combination decreased CCL20 expression, inhibited hepatoma proliferation and migration, and enhanced Apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Molecular analysis revealed increased E-cadherin and decreased N-Cadherin, p-ERK1/2, c-Myc, and Vimentin expression, indicating ERK1/2 pathway modulation. In vivo, treated nude mice showed significantly reduced tumor growth and volume.

Conclusion: Schisandra chinensis Lignans and acteoside potentially counteract CCL20-induced EMT, invasion, and migration in hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the ERK1/2 pathway, enhancing Apoptosis. Multi-omics analysis further aids in pinpointing novel biomarkers for precision Cancer therapy.

Acteoside; Epithelial-mesenchymal transition; Extracellular regulated kinases 1/2 pathway; Liver cancer; Schisandra chinensis lignans.