Overexpression of RAB27A in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Promotes Tumor Migration and Invasion via Modulation of EGFR Membrane Stability

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent subtype of head and neck tumors, highly prone to lymph node metastasis. This study aims examine expression pattern Ras-related protein Rab-27A (RAB27A) explore its potential implications in OSCC. The RAB27A was assessed through immunohistochemical analysis utilizing tissue microarrays. In vitro experiments were conducted using RAB27A-knockdown cells investigate impact on OSCC tumor cells. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing performed elucidate underlying mechanisms. significantly overexpressed OSCC, particularly metastatic nodes. It positively correlated with clinical progression poor survival prognosis. Silencing notably decreased proliferation, migration, invasion abilities vitro. A Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment indicated a strong association between epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway. Further investigations revealed that regulated palmitoylation EGFR via zinc finger DHHC-type containing 13 (ZDHHC13). These findings provide insights into highlight as therapeutic target for combating this aggressive cancer.