HS1BP3, transcriptionally regulated by ESR1, promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression.

Purpose: To explore the role of HS1-binding protein 3 (HS1BP3) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the potential mechanism.

Methods: The effect of HS1BP3 in the prognosis of HCC was analyzed. The influence of HS1BP3 silence on proliferation, migration, cell cycle, and apoptosis of HCC cells (Huh-7 and Sun-449) were evaluated. The upstream transcription factors of HS1BP3 were further explored.

Results: The high expression of HS1BP3 in HCC was significantly associated with poor prognosis. The silencing of HS1BP3 inhibited proliferation, invasion, migration, and promoted G1 phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of HCC cells. Estrogen receptors 1 (ESR1) inhibited proliferation and improved the prognosis of HCC via fusion with HS1BP3 promoter.

Conclusion: HS1BP3 may serve as a novel tumor-promoting factor transcriptionally regulated by ESR1.