Sanguinarine induces apoptosis in osteosarcoma by attenuating the binding of STAT3 to the single‐stranded DNA‐binding protein 1 (SSBP1) promoter region

Abstract

Background and PurposeOsteosarcoma, a primary malignant bone tumor prevalent among adolescents and young adults, remains a considerable challenge despite protracted progress made in enhancing patient survival rates over the last forty years. Consequently, the development of novel therapeutic approaches for osteosarcoma is imperative. Sanguinarine (SNG), a compound with demonstrated potent anticancer properties against various malignancies, presents a promising avenue for exploration. Nevertheless, the intricate molecular mechanisms underpinning SNG’s actions in osteosarcoma remain elusive, necessitating further elucidation.Experimental ApproachSingle stranded DNA binding protein 1 (SSBP1) was screened out by differential proteomic analysis. The apoptosis, cell cycle, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial changes were assessed via flow cytometry. Western blotting and qRT‐PCR were used to determine relevant protein and gene levels. The anti‐tumor mechanism of SNG was explored at molecular level using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual luciferase reporter plasmids.Key ResultsOur investigation revealed that SNG exerted an upregulated effect on SSBP1, disrupting mitochondrial function and inducing apoptosis. In‐depth analysis uncovered a specific mechanism whereby SNG hindered the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway, relieved the inhibitory effect of STAT3 on SSBP1 transcription and inhibited the downstream PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling axis, ultimately activating the apoptosis.Conclusion and ImplicationsThe study delved further into elucidating the anti‐cancer mechanism of SNG in the context of osteosarcoma. Notably, we unraveled the previously undisclosed apoptotic potential of SSBP1 in osteosarcoma cells. This finding holds substantial promise in advancing the development of novel anti‐cancer drugs and the identification of therapeutic targets.