# 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.