Lysophosphatidylserine Stimulates Chemotactic Migration of Colorectal Cancer Cells Through GPR34 and PI3K/Akt Pathway

Background: Lysophosphatidylserine (lysoPS) is a type of lysophospholipid mediator, which is involved in allergic conditions and tumor progression. We investigated the physiological function of lysoPS on colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines, as well as the involved receptor and signaling pathways. Materials and Methods: Expression of lysoPS receptors on six cell lines was examined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The physiological functions of lysoPS were investigated, and experiments using small interfering RNA (siRNA) or inhibitors of the signaling pathways were conducted. Results: Among the three lysoPS receptors, GPR34 was highly expressed on all cell lines. LysoPS stimulated the chemotactic migratory ability. Wortmannin inhibited the migratory ability, as well as the GPR34 knock-down, strongly suggestive of the involvement of this receptor in the PI3K/Akt pathway. Conclusion: The involved receptor and pathways in the migratory ability in response to lysoPS was demonstrated, which opens premises for targeting as a new strategy for prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.