DNA Methyltransferase 1 Affects Proliferation and Migration of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Regulating Ras Association Domain Family 1 Methylation

Abstract

The effects of DNMT1 on human colorectal cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis as well as the possible underlying mechanisms were investigated. SW480 cells were treated with the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-AZA-CdR. qRT-PCR was used to analyze mRNA expression, whereas protein expression was evaluated by western blotting. Cell growth, migration, and invasion were measured by MTT, transwell migration, and wound healing assays, respectively. Cell morphology was observed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. 5-AZA-CdR treatment inhibited DNMT1 expression in colorectal cancer cells. Further, low expression of DNMT1 regulated RASSF1A-mediated inhibition of CyclinD1 expression, as well as colon cancer cell morphology, proliferation, and migration via RASSF1A methylation. Our results provide a basis for therapeutic strategies based on DNMT1 and RASSF1A for colorectal cancer.