KYSE180 Cells

The KYSE180 cell line is a human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) model derived from a primary tumor. This cell line is classified as moderately differentiated and exhibits a range of genetic alterations characteristic of ESCC, including mutations in the NRF2 (NFE2L2) signaling pathway. Specifically, KYSE180 cells harbor the NRF2 D77V mutation, which contributes to the hyperactivation of NRF2, a transcription factor involved in oxidative stress response and tumor progression.

KYSE180 cells are widely used to study the molecular mechanisms of ESCC, including chemoresistance and oncogenic signaling. Elevated NRF2 activity in KYSE180 cells has been linked to resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as NRF2 enhances cellular antioxidant defenses and metabolic adaptations. Recent research has identified compounds like pyrimethamine that inhibit NRF2 signaling, resulting in reduced proliferation and tumorigenicity of KYSE180 cells. Such studies highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting NRF2 in NRF2-high cancers.

Additionally, KYSE180 cells have been utilized to evaluate the roles of the aldo-keto reductase (AKR) family of enzymes, particularly AKR1C1 and AKR1C2, in drug metabolism and chemoprevention. The expression of these enzymes is upregulated in KYSE180 cells, enhancing sensitivity to agents such as ethyl-3,4-dihydroxybenzoate (EDHB). This compound induces apoptosis and autophagy, demonstrating the cell line’s utility in exploring drug responses and cellular stress mechanisms in ESCC.