Lysophosphatidic acid initiates epithelial to mesenchymal transition and Induces β-Catenin-mediated transcription in epithelial ovarian carcinoma

Abstract

Background: Aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is found in ovarian cancer, even when mutations are absent. Results: The bioactive lipid lysophosphatidic acid induces β 1-integrin clustering, nuclear β-catenin translocation, and activation of TCF/LEF-regulated gene expression. Conclusion: Microenvironmental lipids modulate β-catenin signaling. Significance: Understanding the mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin activation provides a basis for therapeutic targeting of the pathway in ovarian cancer.