Osteopontin Modulates the Radiosensitivity and Viability of NCI-H1299 Cells through the JAK2/STAT3 Pathway

Abstract

Background: Osteopontin (OPN) conducts a vital part in the metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This research investigates whether OPN modulates the radiosensitivity of NSCLC cells through the JAK (Janus tyrosine Kinase) 2/STAT (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription) 3 pathway in NSCLC. Methods: NCI-H1299 cells were exposed to different doses of radiation. The cells were divided into 6 subgroups: Control (CON) subgroup, si-non-specific control (NC) subgroup, si-OPN subgroup, CON+8Gray (GY) subgroup, si-NC+8GY subgroup and si-OPN+8GY subgroup. The OPN mRNA level was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The OPN, p-H2A histone family member X (p-H2AX), H2AX, p-STAT3, STAT3, p-JAK2 and JAK2 levels were measured by western blot. DNA damage in cells was measured by comet assay. Cell proliferation was measured by colony formation assay. Scratch healing assay and transwell assay were used to measure the migration and invasion ability of the cells. Results: Different doses of irradiation could reduce the mRNA and protein levels of OPN (p < 0.05). Both si-OPN and 8GY rays could reduce OPN, p-STAT3 and p-JAK2 levels in NCI-H1299 cells, boost p-H2AX level, promote DNA damage, reduce cell activity, and restrain cell metastasis (p < 0.05). Conclusion: OPN may affect the radiosensitivity and activity of NCI-H1299 cells through the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.