TSPAN7 Functions as an Antitumor Agent Through the STK11/AMPK/mTOR Axis in Colorectal Cancer

<b>Background:</b> Tetraspanin 7 (<i>TSPAN7</i>), a quadruple transmembrane glycoprotein, is involved in the growth, development, and energy metabolism of cells, particularly in tumor cells. Despite its recognized significance, the role of <i>TSPAN7</i> in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to explore the antitumor activity of <i>TSPAN7</i> through the STK11/AMPK/mTOR pathway. <b>Methods:</b> Analysis of differential genes in normal colon and CRC tissues was conducted using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Ten potential genes, including <i>TSPAN7</i>, were also identified through the database screening. <b>Results:</b> Assessment of <i>TSPAN7</i> alterations in both CRC tissues as well as cell lines revealed reduced expression as compared to normal colon tissues. Based on the findings, modulation of <i>TSPAN7</i> expression was performed through overexpression and downregulation in vitro within CRC cells. The findings indicated that <i>TSPAN7</i> exerted a negative regulatory influence on the migration and proliferation of CRC cells. An examination of AMPK and mTOR phosphorylation levels revealed that <i>TSPAN7</i> affected the phosphorylation of these proteins via STK11. <b>Conclusion:</b> In CRC, <i>TSPAN7</i> exerts antitumor effects through the STK11/AMPK/mTOR axis.