D-mannose suppresses the angiogenesis and progression of colorectal cancer.

Abstract

Angiogenesis is an important factor influencing the development of solid tumors, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) is a central regulator of angiogenesis. Antibodies and inhibitors against VEGFR2 have been widely used in various malignancies. However, the regulatory mechanism of VEGFR2 has not been fully clarified. Here, we show that D-mannose can significantly inhibit angiogenesis and tumor growth by degrading VEGFR2. Specifically, D-mannose inactivates GSK3β by promoting the phosphorylation of GSK3β at Ser9, enhances the nuclear translocation of TFE3, and promotes lysosomal biogenesis, thereby increasing the lysosome-mediated degradation of VEGFR2. Thus, D-mannose significantly inhibits the proliferation, migration, and capillary formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. Oral administration of D-mannose dramatically inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth in mice. Our findings reveal a previously unrecognized anti-tumor mechanism of D-mannose by destabilizing VEGFR2 and provide a new strategy for the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC).