KLF4 activates LATS2 to promote cisplatin sensitivity in ovarian cancer through DNA damage.

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the role of large tumor suppressor kinase 2 (LATS2) in cisplatin (DDP) sensitivity in ovarian cancer. Bioinformatic analysis explored LATS2 expression, pathways, and regulators. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR measured LATS2 and KLF4 mRNA levels. Dual-luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed their binding relationship. Cell viability, half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values, cell cycle, and DNA damage were assessed using CCK-8, flow cytometry, and comet assays. Western blot analyzed protein expression. The effect of LATS2 on the sensitivity of ovarian cancer to DDP was verified in vivo. LATS2 and KLF4 were downregulated in ovarian cancer, with LATS2 enriched in cell cycle, DNA replication, and mismatch repair pathways. KLF4, an upstream regulator of LATS2, bound to its promoter. Overexpressing LATS2 increased G1-phase cells, reduced cell viability and IC50 values, and induced DNA damage. Silencing KLF4 alone showed the opposite effect on LATS2 overexpression. Knocking out LATS2 reversed the effects of KLF4 overexpression on cell viability, cell cycle, IC50 values, and DNA damage in ovarian cancer cells. Inhibiting LATS2 inactivated the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway. In vivo experiments showed that overexpression of LATS2 enhanced the sensitivity of ovarian cancer to DDP. KLF4 activates LATS2 via DNA damage to enhance DDP sensitivity in ovarian cancer, providing a potential target for improving treatment outcomes.