TITLE:
The Complementary Roles of CXCR4 and CXCR7 in Melanoma Migration
AUTHORS:
Roland Lacap, Nikolas Yousefi, Samantha Hain, Natalie Dahan, Tyler Tran, Justina Gorgy, Ronelle Caguioa, Cindy S. Malone, Ravinder Abrol, Maria Elena de Bellard
KEYWORDS:
Melanoma, CXCR4, CXCR7, Cell Migration
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.12 No.2,
February
20,
2025
ABSTRACT: The two known receptors, CXCR4 and CXCR7, for the chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF1) play a role in the development and metastasis of multiple cancers, including melanoma. CXCR4 receptor signaling influences melanoma cell responses, including proliferation, migration, and metastasis. CXCR7 receptor signaling can also induce melanoma malignancy by increasing proliferation. However, it is unknown if CXCR7 directly affects melanoma cell migration. Here, we blocked CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptor signaling by inhibitors and by reducing their expression through siRNA treatment. Both methods efficiently reduced melanoma cell migration with two different assays. These results suggest that the CXCR7 receptor is as relevant as the CXCR4 receptor in affecting the migratory capabilities of melanoma cells. These findings support that downregulation or inhibition of the CXCR7 receptor through targeted therapies may benefit melanoma treatment.