In vitro analysis of silkworm sericin induced modifications in migration related genes in colorectal cancer cells

Background: Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The search for natural compounds with anticancer activity has gained increasing interest. Sericin, a silk-derived protein, has demonstrated various biological properties, including potential anticancer effects. This study aimed to evaluate anticancer effects of sericin and influence on the expression of genes associated with cancer progression in colorectal cancer cells. Methods: Colorectal cancer cells (SW620, SW480, HCT116) were treated with different concentrations of sericin. Effects on cell viability were monitored and confirmed by MTT assay. The expression levels of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (RAC1) genes were analyzed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Online data tool (STRING software) was used to assess the protein-protein interactions, biological processes and molecular functions associated with the two genes.  Results: Sericin treatment resulted in reduced cellular viability and downregulation of FAK and RAC1 gene expression compared to untreated control cells. The inhibition of these genes indicates suppression of signaling pathways involved in migration and invasion of the colorectal cancer cells. Bioinformatics showed important protein interactors of the genes with the involvement of key biological and molecular functions including growth signaling pathways, secondary messenger networks and kinase activities. Conclusion: The findings suggest that sericin exhibits anticancer activity against colorectal cancer and deregulate the expression of FAK and RAC1 genes. Further in vitro studies are required to investigate the fine cellular tunings to confirm the efficacy.