BGN promotes epithelial migration in mammary gland development and breast cancer metastasis through activation of WNT signaling

This study investigates the role of Biglycan (BGN) in promoting epithelial migration during mammary gland development and breast cancer metastasis. Using in vitro and in vivo models, including a 3D organoid migration assay and single-cell RNA sequencing, we demonstrate that BGN enhances the interaction between WNT3A and FZD6, activating the WNT signaling pathway. This activation promotes epithelial cell migration and breast cancer metastasis. The findings provide new insights into breast cancer metastasis mechanisms and identify BGN as a potential therapeutic target. Overall design: The study utilized RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to analyze gene expression changes associated with BGN protein stimulation in breast cancer and mammary epithelial cells. Samples were collected from two conditions: control group and BGN protein stimulation group. Sequencing was performed on an Illumina platform. The analysis focused on identifying differentially expressed genes and pathway activations, particularly the WNT signaling pathway. Additional in vitro assays using 3D organoid models were conducted to validate the role of BGN in epithelial migration and tumor metastasis.