Effects of the exercise-inducible myokine irisin on proliferation and malignant properties of ovarian cancer cells through the HIF-1 α signaling pathway

BackgroundExercise has been shown to be associated with reduced risk and improving outcomes of several types of cancers. Irisin -a novel exercise-related myokine- has been proposed to exert beneficial effects in metabolic disorders including cancer. No previous studies have investigated whether irisin may regulate malignant characteristics of ovarian cell lines. MethodsIn the present study, we aimed to explore the effect of irisin on viability and proliferation of ovarian cancer cells which was examined by MTT assay. Then, we evaluated migratory and invasive ability of the cells via transwell assays. Moreover, the percentage of apoptosis induction was determined by flowcytometery. Furthermore, the mRNA expression level of genes related to the aerobic respiration (HIF-1, c-Myc, LDHA, PDK1 and VEGF) were detected by real-time PCR. ResultsOur data revealed that irisin treatment significantly attenuated the proliferation, migration and invasion of ovarian cancer cells. Besides, irisin induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. We also observed that irisin regulated the expression of genes involved in aerobic respiration of ovarian cancer cells. ConclusionOur results indicate that irisin may play a crucial role in inhibition of cell growth and malignant characteristics of ovarian cancer. This findings may open up avenues for future studies to identify the further therapeutic use of irisin in ovarian cancer management.