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+# The CXCR4 Antagonist R54 Targets Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
+
+## Creators
+- Russo Daniela  
+- Spina Anna  
+- Portella Luigi  
+- Bello Anna Maria  
+- Galdiero Francesca  
+- Trotta Anna Maria  
+- Ieranò Caterina  
+- Rea Giuseppina  
+- Cecere Sabrina Chiara  
+- Coppola Elisabetta  
+- Di Maro Salvatore  
+- Pignata Sandro  
+- Califano Daniela  
+- Scala Stefania  
+
+## Description
+
+### Abstract
+
+The axis **CXCL12-CXCR4** is highly expressed in ovarian cancer where it contributes to disease progression. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the newly developed **CXCR4 antagonist R54** on human ovarian cancer cell aggressiveness. 
+
+The **CXCL12-CXCR4** axis was assessed in human ovarian cancer cells through:
+- **Proliferation**
+- **Migration**
+- **CXCL12-dependent signaling**
+
+**Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)** was analyzed via markers:
+- **E-CADHERIN**
+- **N-CADHERIN**
+- **VIMENTIN**
+- **SNAIL1**
+- **ΒETA-CATENIN**
+
+Methods used include:
+- **qRT-PCR**
+- **Immunofluorescence**
+- **Immunoblotting**
+
+**Key Findings**:
+- R54 inhibited **CXCL12-induced proliferation and migration** of ovarian cancer cells.
+- R54 suppressed **CXCL12-dependent pERK1/2 and pAKT** signaling.
+- R54 reversed **CXCL12-induced EMT**, reducing mesenchymal traits in ovarian cancer cells.
+
+**Conclusion**:
+Targeting CXCR4 with the antagonist **R54** effectively reverted EMT in human ovarian cancer cells, diminishing their **migratory** and **chemoresistance** features.