LOX-1 and Its Splicing Variant LOX-1Δ4 Differently Influence Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Progression and Aggressiveness

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause among cancer-related deaths. HCC progression is linked to alteration of lipid metabolism. Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), a receptor for oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDLs), and its splicing isoform LOX-1Δ4 have been recently identified and linked to tumor aggressiveness, but their role in HCC carcinogenesis is largely unexplored. The present study is aimed at investigating and comparing the role of LOX-1 and its splicing variant LOX-1Δ4 in HCC progression and chemoresistance.