CHRFAM7A reduces monocyte/macrophage migration and colony formation in vitro

Objective and design CHRFAM7A is a unique human gene that encodes a dominant negative inhibitor of the alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. We have recently shown that CHRFAM7A is expressed in human leukocytes, increases cel-cell adhesion, and regulates the expression of genes associated with leukocyte migration. Material Human THP-1, RAW264.7 and HEK293 cells. Methods Cell migration, cell proliferation and colony formation in soft agar to compare the biological activity of vector vs. CHRFAM7A-transduced cells. Results We show that gene delivery of CHRFAM7A into the THP-1 human monocytic cell line reduces cell migration, reduces chemotaxis to monocyte chemoattractant protein, and reduces colony formation in soft agar. Conclusion Taken together, the findings demonstrate that CHRFAM7A regulates the biological activity of monocytes/macrophages to migrate and undergo anchorage-independent growth in vitro.