Effect of the hepatitis B virus HBx protein on integrin-mediated adhesion to and migration on extracellular matrix

Background/Aims: The hepatitis B virus HBx protein is associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its possible contribution to tumor spreading has not been explored. The migration of tumor cells through the extracellular matrix (ECM) represents a crucial step in tumor metastasis. Our aim was to study the effect of HBx on the integrin-mediated cell–ECM interaction, and its possible consequences for cell migration. Methods: Cell–ECM interaction was evaluated by static adhesion experiments, using blocking and stimulating anti-β1 integrin mAbs. ECM receptor expression was analyzed by flow cytometry. The cellular distribution of the activated β1 integrin subunit was determined by immunofluorescence analysis, and cell motility was determined by wound-healing assays. Results: HBx-bearing cells showed decreased adhesion to fibronectin, which correlated with a decreased expression of the α5 integrin subunit. The activated β1 subunit was redistributed to the tips of pseudopodial protrusions of HBx-bearing cells, whereas it was evenly localized in the control cells. HBx-induced cell migration was abrogated by irreversible stimulation of β1 integrins. Conclusions: These results suggest that HBx might play a role in tumor spreading by modulating the adhesion–deadhesion balance of the cells in the primary tumor site and favoring integrin-mediated cell migration.