Exploring the potential of AgNPs in modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway via miR-133a regulation in MCF-7 breast cancer cells

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women. MiRNAs modulate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR (PAM) pathway, functioning as either tumor suppressors or oncogenes. This research explores the impact of AgNPs on breast cancer cells while emphasizing the interplay between miR-133a and the PAM pathway and uncovering regulatory mechanisms.

To assess the impact of AgNPs on cell growth and survival, we performed an MTT assay. Additionally, we employed bioinformatic methodologies to predict potential targets of miR-133a within the PAM pathway. We quantified the expression levels of miR-133a, PI3K, AKT, PTEN, and mTOR in MCF-7 cells after exposure to AgNPs using qRT-PCR. Furthermore, we employed Western blotting to evaluate the protein expression of mTOR.

The MTT assay results demonstrated a significant dose- and time-dependent inhibition of breast cancer cells by AgNPs. The qRT-PCR analysis revealed an upregulation in the mRNA expression levels of PI3K and AKT, accompanied by a downregulation in the mRNA expression levels of PTEN and mTOR upon exposure to AgNPs. However, the efficacy and expression level of miR-133a as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer cells remained unchanged following exposure to AgNPs (IC50).

The study found that AgNPs inhibit breast cancer cell growth, affecting the PAM pathway, but miR-133a remained unchanged, suggesting AgNPs may not primarily act through miR-133a. Further research is needed, but caution is advised when using AgNPs for cancer control and treatment.