DNMT3a-dermatopontin axis suppresses breast cancer malignancy via inactivating YAP

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumor in women worldwide, and its recurrence and metastasis negatively affect patient prognosis. However, the mechanisms underlying its tumorigenesis and progression remain unclear. Recently, the influence of dermatopontin (DPT), which is an extracellular matrix protein, has been proposed in the development of cancer. Here we found that DNMT3a-mediated DPT, promoter hypermethylation results in the downregulation of DPT expression in breast cancer and its low expression correlated with poor prognosis. Notably, DPT directly interacted with YAP to promote YAP Ser127 phosphorylation, and restricted the translocation of endogenous YAP from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, thereby suppressing malignant phenotypes in BC cells. In addition, Ectopic YAP overexpression reversed the inhibitory effects of DPT on BC growth and metastasis. Our study showed the critical role of DPT in regulating BC progression, making it easier to explore the clinical potential of modulating DPT/YAP activity in BC targeted therapies.

Automated summary

Breast cancer is a common malignant tumor in women and understanding its mechanisms is important for prognosis. Recent research suggests that dermatopontin (DPT), an extracellular matrix protein, is involved in cancer development. This study found that DNMT3a-mediated DPT promoter hypermethylation leads to downregulation of DPT in breast cancer, and low DPT expression is associated with poor prognosis. Additionally, DPT interacts with YAP to inhibit breast cancer growth and metastasis. These findings reveal the critical role of DPT in breast cancer progression and suggest potential targeted therapies.