Distribution and expression of CD44 isoforms and Ezrin during prostate cancer-endothelium interaction

CD44 is a multifunctional cell surface adhesion molecule that has been implicated in tumour cell invasion and metastasis. Many cancer cell types as well as their metastases express high levels of CD44. Furthermore, the expression of certain CD44 variants has been linked with metastasis and tumour progression. It is known that ezrin a member of the ERM family of proteins can bind to CD44 and thus raises the possibility that it is involved in cell migration and metastasis. Therefore we examined the expression and distribution of CD44, its co-localisation and translocation with ezrin in prostate cancer cell lines as they interact with endothelial cells. Experimental results indicate prostate cancer cells express multiple CD44 isoforms that co-localise with ezrin in DU-145 and PC-3 prostate cancer cells. Treatment with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF/SF) resulted in up-regulation of CD44 and its co-translocation with ezrin during tumour-endothelial cell interactions. In addition, tumour cell adhesion to endothelial cells and their invasiveness was increased after exposure to HGF/SF, and can be blocked by the presence of anti-CD44 antibodies. It is concluded that CD44 and ezrin interact in endothelial cells and that they co-localise in the areas of tumour-endothelial contact. The CD44/ezrin complex plays a pivotal role in the capture and invasion of endothelial cells by prostate cancer cells.