Correlation of SOX4, SOX17, VE-cadherin and vasculogenic mimicry with prognosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract Background: This study to explore the relationships between SOX4, SOX17, vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and VM with the occurrence and development of ESCC. Methods: SOX4, SOX17, and VE-cadherin expression as well as VM in tissues were determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The cell invasion, migration, and proliferation were determined after silencing of VE-cadherin. SOX4, SOX17, and VE-cadherin protein and mRNA expression were quantified by Western blotting and qRT-PCR analyses, respectively.Results: The expression of SOX17, SOX4, and VE-cadherin were significantly correlated with clinical characteristics of ESCC. After VE-cadherin silencing, the cell invasion, migration, and proliferation were decreased, while SOX17 levels were increased and SOX4 levels were decreased.Conclusions: SOX17, SOX4, and VE-cadherin are involved in the development of ESCC.