RNF6 enhances radioresistance in colorectal cancer via activating the Wnt pathway.

PURPOSE RNF6 is verified to promote the malignant growth of colorectal cancer (CRC) and its level is linked to prognosis in CRC patients. Radioresistance is a key factor influencing prognosis in CRC. This study aimed to uncover the potential regulation of ring finger protein 6 (RNF6) in CRC radioresistance. METHODS RNF6 levels in radioresistant and non-radioresistant CRC patients were detected. In vitro and in vivo regulatory effects of RNF6 on radioresistant CRC cell lines and nude mice bearing radioresistant CRC were examined, respectively. The involvement of Wnt pathway in CRC radioresistance was explored by Western blot. RESULTS RNF6 was highly expressed in radioresistant CRC species than that of non-radioresistant ones. Identically, RNF6 was upregulated in radioresistant CRC cells compared to parental cells. SW1116 cells overexpressing RNF6 were more tolerant to radiotherapy, and similar results were obtained in nude mice bearing radioresistant CRC with overexpression of RNF6. Moreover, the Wnt pathway was activated during RNF6-induced radioresistance improvement in CRC. CONCLUSIONS RNF6 enhances radioresistance of CRC through activating the Wnt pathway.