ANXA13 expression patterns in hepatocellular carcinoma and impact on tumor behavior

BACKGROUND Emerging evidence has demonstrated that ANXA13 is closely related to the occurrence and development of malignant tumors. However, the functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of ANXA13 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been defined. AIM To examine the expression of ANXA13 in HCC, investigate its correlation with clinicopathological features. METHODS Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to detect the ANXA13 expression in HCC tissues and cell lines at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Transwell and cell counting kit-8 assays were performed to assess the effects of ANXA13 overexpression on the proliferation and migration of Huh7 cells. RESULTS ANXA13 mRNA was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues, while protein levels were elevated. ANXA13 expression correlated positively with tumor diameter and tumor node metastasis stage. In HCC cell lines (Hep3B and Huh7), ANXA13 expression was higher. Overexpression of ANXA13 enhanced the proliferation and migration capabilities of Huh7 cells. CONCLUSION ANXA13 was upregulated in HCC. Its overexpression promotes tumor progression and is associated with advanced clinicopathological features, suggesting ANXA13 as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.