Epigenetic Activation of PTCD3 Promotes CRC Glutamine Metabolism and Metastasis via IGF2BP2‐Mediated SLC38A2 m6A Modification

ABSTRACT Cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming, shifting their programs toward aerobic glycolysis and enhanced glutaminolysis to fulfill the requirements of rapid proliferation. Investigating the mechanisms underlying glutaminolysis and its connection with colorectal cancer (CRC) could aid in identifying novel therapeutic targets. PTCD3, a mitochondrial RNA‐binding protein, is implicated in cancer progression, and IGF2BP2 regulates mRNA stability and translation. SLC38A2, a key transporter in glutamine metabolism, plays a crucial role in supporting cancer cell growth. This study aims to develop inhibitors of PTCD3 or SLC38A2 to prevent metabolic changes in cancer cells that facilitate rapid growth and metastasis in CRC. RT‐qPCR, western blot, IHC, and IF staining assays confirmed the targeted gene and protein expression. Proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated using CCK‐8 assay, scratch assay, and Transwell assay, respectively. Co‐IP, RIP, and dual‐luciferase assays were conducted to investigate the interactions among PTCD3, IGF2BP2, and SLC38A2. A CRC xenograft nude mice model was established for additional in vivo validation. PTCD3 was upregulated in CRC and positively correlated with GLS1. PTCD3 knockdown suppressed CRC cell glutaminolysis, thereby inhibiting CRC migration and invasion. PTCD3 promoted SLC38A2 mRNA stability in an IGF2BP2‐dependent manner. KAT2A promoted the expression of PTCD3 by increasing H3K27 acetylation. The inhibitory effect of PTCD3 depletion on the glutaminolysis of CRC cells, as well as CRC cell proliferation and migration, was reversed by SLC38A2 overexpression. The in vivo mouse experiments further confirmed that silencing of PTCD3 inhibited CRC tumor growth. In summary, KAT2A upregulates PTCD3 expression by promoting H3K27 acetylation, which promotes glutaminolysis and metastasis in CRC via enhancing SLC38A2 mRNA stability in an IGF2BP2‐dependent manner.