Multifaceted involvement of ACBD6 in the metabolic reprogramming of breast cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Serving as the key intermediate in metabolic pathways, acyl-CoA is coordinated by various acyl-CoA binding domain containing proteins (ACBDs). ACBD6 is a crucial member of the ACBD family, and previous studies have indicated its potential in tumorigenesis and cancer progress. However, the clinical relevance of ACBD6 in breast cancer is still elusive. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between ACBD6 expression and other clinicopathological features of breast cancer, furtherly explore its specific role in metabolism and prognostic value. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 90 patients and used immunohistochemical staining to determine their ACBD6 statuses. Web platforms are also used to analyze ACBD6. Results: Results showed that patients with high ACBD6 expression tend to be older, more likely to be progesterone receptor negative, and more often classified into triple-negative breast cancer. Web platforms such as LinkedOmics and BCIP uniformly confirm that ACBD6 level is elevated in breast cancerous tissues. Higher expression of ACBD6 is associated with more aggressive clinicopathological features, as well as worse prognosis. Conclusions: ACBD6 assists with N-myristoyltransferase enzymes to functionally support glycine myristoylation, and interacts with lysophospholipid-acyltransferase enzymes, protecting the integrity of membrane lipid bilayer from the destructive nature of acyl-CoA. Also, ACBD6 could influence hematopoiesis and vascular endothelium development. Despite precise cognition remains scarce, ACBD6 multi-functionally works in the occurrence and metabolic reprogramming of breast cancer. Further researches are deserved to elucidate the biological mechanisms, prognostic and therapeutic value of ACBD6.