Overexpressed HGF promotes metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck through the PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways

Background: The role of HGF in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is not clear. Methods: Reverse transcription PCR, western blotting, gelatin zymography, immunohistochemistry, actin polymerization, chemotaxis and migration assays were used in the authors' study. Results: HGF expression level was upregulated in SCCHN cells, which was associated with clinical stage; tumor, node, metastasis classification; and lymphatic invasion. SCCHN cells with high Met expression were sensitive to cell invasion, which was blocked by inhibiting PI3K/Akt and JNK. HGF induced MMP9 expression and enhanced its activity. Akt induced the activation of JNK through the PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways. Conclusion: HGF upregulates MMP9 through the activation of the PI3K/Akt and JNK signaling pathways in SCCHN cells.