A novel peptide that selectively binds highly metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma cell surface is related to invasion and metastasis

Using a phage display approach, we identified AWYPLPP peptide as a specific peptide ligand that binds to the cell surface of highly metastatic human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Moreover, the peptide was able to promote in vitro invasion of highly metastatic HCC cells by activating matrix metalloproteinase-9 and in vivo lung metastasis of HCC tumors. These results indicate that AWYPLPP peptide likely recognizes a novel receptor that is selectively expressed on the cell surface of highly metastatic HCC and mediates cellular activities associated with the invasive phenotype. Identification of the receptor for the AWYPLPP peptide may provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of HCC metastasis.