ADAM17 promotes colorectal cancer migration and invasion by regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

Investigate ADAM17 expression in colorectal cancer (CRC) at molecular and cellular levels and its potential mechanism in promoting tumorigenesis by regulating CRC cell migration and invasion. The study measured ADAM17 mRNA and protein levels in colorectal cancer cells and tissues using qPCR and immunohistochemical staining, and assessed the cells' proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities. ADAM17 expression was significantly higher in CRC tissues than in non-cancerous tissues and was linked to metastasis and poor prognosis in CRC patients. Silencing ADAM17 reduced cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, knocking down ADAM17 decreased the expression of TGF-β/Smad pathway-related proteins, which inhibited proteins associated with migration and invasion, thus impairing these cellular processes. ADAM17 likely promotes the migration and invasion of CRC cells by regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. This study aids in understanding the molecular mechanisms of CRC metastasis and development, and supports the development of new therapeutic targets. •ADAM17 is significantly increased in CRC tissues.•ADAM17 knockdown inhibits CRC cell proliferation, migration, invasion.•ADAM17 knockdown inhibits the activity the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in CRC.