Downregulated Regucalcin Expression Induces a Cancer-like Phenotype in Non-Neoplastic Prostate Cells and Augments the Aggressiveness of Prostate Cancer Cells: Interplay with the G Protein-Coupled Oestrogen Receptor?

Bioinformatic analysis showed that the loss of <i>RGN</i> correlates with the development of metastatic PCa and poor survival outcomes. <i>RGN</i> knockdown induced a cancer-like phenotype in PNT1A cells, indicated by increased cell viability and proliferation and reduced apoptosis. In DU145 PCa cells, <i>RGN</i> knockdown augmented migration and enhanced the glycolytic profile, which indicates increased aggressiveness, in line with patients' data. GPER activation modulated RGN expression in PCa cells and <i>RGN</i> knockdown in DU145 cells influenced GPER actions, which highlighted an interplay between these molecular players with relevance for their potential use as biomarkers or therapeutic targets.