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BackgroundInsulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2), as a m6A “reader”, is known to be an oncogene, and its expression is elevated in multiple tumors. However, the role of IGF2PB2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is still unclear. MethodsThis study aims to investigate the role of IGF2PB2 expression in ESCC proliferation, invasion and migration as well as the possible mechanism. IGF2BP2 expression was found to be elevated in ESCC tissues by qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. ResultsKnocking down IGF2BP2 expression prevented the proliferation, invasion, migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of KYSE450 and TE1 cells. Knocking out IGF2BP2 reduced tumorigenesis in vivo. Overexpression of IGF2BP2 was performed, and it was proven that IGF2BP2 had an oncogenic effect in KYSE450 and TE1 cells. Moreover, LY294002, a highly selective inhibitor of PI3K, reversed the effect of IGF2BP2 overexpression on EMT processes. All these results show that the effects of IGF2BP2 on oncogenesis and EMT were clearly exerted via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. ConclusionsIn conclusion, this study demonstrates that the oncogenic function of IGF2BP2 is mediated by the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and is related to EMT in ESCC. In addition, IGF2BP2 can serve as a diagnostic and oncotherapeutic marker in further studies.