KPNA2 promotes migration and invasion in epithelial ovarian cancer cells by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition via Akt/GSK-3β/Snail activation

Background: Increased karyopherin alpha 2 (KPNA2) expression has been demonstrated in epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) tissue. However, its role in the disease is not clear. Here, we investigate the mechanism of involvement of KPNA2 in EOC. Methods: Stable cell lines expressing KPNA2, or KPNA2 shRNAs, were constructed. The effects of KPNA2 overexpression and knockdown on EOC cell migration, invasion, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were evaluated using relevant assays and western blot analysis. Key components of the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling pathway were detected using western blotting and immunofluorescence. Results: KPNA2 overexpression increased the migration and invasion of EOC cells (EFO-21 and SK-OV3); these cells also exhibited characteristics of EMT. Key proteins in the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling pathway were also upregulated in cells overexpressing KPNA2. In contrast, knockdown of KPNA2 effectively suppressed migration and invasion of these EOC cells. Conclusions: KPNA2 may reduce the migration and invasion of EOC by inhibiting the Akt/GSK-3β/Snail signaling pathway and suppressing EMT.