FOXP2 inhibits the aggressiveness of lung cancer cells by blocking TGFβ signaling.

Abstract

Lung cancer is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Forkhead box P2 (FOXP2) functions as an antitumor gene in various cancers. However, its role in lung cancer remains to be elucidated. The present study explored the potential role of FOXP2 in lung cancer. mRNA levels and protein expression were determined using RT-qPCR and western blotting, respectively. Functional analysis was performed using the CCK-8, Transwell and TUNEL assays. FOXP2 expression was downregulated in lung cancer. Notably, FOXP2 suppressed the proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities of lung cancer cells and promoted tumor cell apoptosis. In addition, FOXP2 blocked TGFβ signaling. However, SRI-011381-stimulated activation of TGFβ signaling reversed the effects of overexpressed FOXP2 and promoted the aggressiveness of lung cancer cells. FOXP2 functions as an antitumor gene in lung cancer cells. FOXP2 suppressed the malignant behavior of lung cancer by inactivating TGFβ signaling.