MACC1 Mediated Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer
Summary
Metastasis-Associated in Colon Cancer 1 (MACC1) is a transcriptional regulator first identified for its role in driving dissemination of colorectal cancer cells. By upregulating the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor MET and downstream effectors, MACC1 promotes cell proliferation, motility and invasion. Its overexpression correlates with advanced tumour stage, lymph node involvement and distant metastasis, making it a potent prognostic biomarker. Mechanistically, MACC1 orchestrates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), rewires metabolic pathways to fuel cell survival under stress and shapes the tumour microenvironment to favour immune evasion. Inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IFN-γ converge on MACC1 regulatory elements, amplifying metastatic potential. Conversely, targeted suppression of MACC1 using small-molecule inhibitors or RNA interference diminishes metastatic burden in preclinical models. The global significance of MACC1 spans patient stratification, liquid-biopsy monitoring and therapeutic intervention, positioning it at the nexus of basic research and clinical application.
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MACC1 Mediated Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in macc1 mediated metastasis in colorectal cancer across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
MACC1: A transcription factor that promotes metastatic traits by activating HGF/MET signalling and other downstream pathways.
HGF/Met pathway: A ligand–receptor axis critical for cell motility, proliferation and invasion in cancer progression.
Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition (EMT): A process in which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal features, enhancing migratory and invasive capabilities.
Immune evasion: Mechanisms by which tumour cells avoid detection and destruction by the host immune system.
Small-molecule inhibitor: A low-molecular-weight compound designed to bind and inhibit specific protein targets involved in disease processes.
References
- Immune Response and Metastasis—Links between the Metastasis Driver MACC1 and Cancer Immune Escape Strategies. Cancers (2024).
- Pro-inflammatory TNF-α and IFN-γ Promote Tumor Growth and Metastasis via Induction of MACC1. Frontiers in Immunology (2020).
- Statin and rottlerin small-molecule inhibitors restrict colon cancer progression and metastasis via MACC1. PLOS Biology (2017).
- Circulating MACC1 Transcripts in Colorectal Cancer Patient Plasma Predict Metastasis and Prognosis. PLOS ONE (2012).
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