FOXC2 promotes vasculogenic mimicry and resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy

• DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112791
• Publication Date: 2023-07-26T14:31:32Z
• Authors: Ian G. Cannell; Kirsty Sawicka; Isabella Pearsall; Sophia A. Wild; Lauren Deighton; Sarah M. Pearsall; Giulia Lerda; Fadwa Joud; Showkhin Khan; Alejandra Bruna; Kathryn L. Simpson; Claire M. Mulvey; Fiona Nugent; Fatime Qosaj; Dario Bressan; Caroline Dive; Carlos Caldas; Gregory J. Hannon
• Keywords: Vasculogenic mimicry; Vasculogenesis; Ectopic expression

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) describes the formation of pseudo blood vessels constructed tumor cells that have acquired endothelial-like properties. VM channels endow with a tumor-derived vascular system directly connects to host vessels, and their presence is generally associated poor patient prognosis. Here we show transcription factor, Foxc2, promotes in diverse solid types by driving ectopic expression endothelial genes cells, process stimulated hypoxia. VM-proficient tumors are resistant anti-angiogenic therapy, suppression Foxc2 augments response. This work establishes co-option an embryonic factor as key mechanism proclivity motivates search for VM-inhibitory agents could form basis combination therapies anti-angiogenics.