# IFITM1 as a modulator of surfaceome dynamics and aggressive phenotype in cervical cancer cells

## TL;DR

This study explores how IFITM1 affects the surface proteins and aggressive behavior of cervical cancer cells.

## Contribution

The study reveals how IFITM1 modulates the surfaceome and aggressive traits in cervical cancer cells.

## Key findings

- IFITM1 influences the composition of the cervical cancer cell surfaceome.
- IFITM1-regulated proteins are involved in endocytosis, adhesion, and immune response.
- IFITM1 and IFITM3 impact cell adhesion, migration, invasion, and immune interactions.

## Abstract

Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) are frequently overexpressed in cancer cells, including cervical carcinoma cells, and play a role in the progression of various cancer types. However, their mechanisms of action remain incompletely understood. In the present study, by employing a combination of surface membrane protein isolation and quantitative mass spectrometry, it was comprehensively described how the IFITM1 protein influences the composition of the cervical cancer cell surfaceome. Additionally, the effects of interferon-γ on protein expression and cell surface exposure were evaluated in the presence and absence of IFITM1. The IFITM1-regulated membrane and membrane-associated proteins identified are involved mainly in processes such as endocytosis and lysosomal transport, cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix adhesion, antigen presentation and the immune response. To complement the proteomic data, gene expression was analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR to distinguish whether the observed changes in protein levels were attributable to transcriptional regulation or differential protein dynamics. Furthermore, the proteomic and gene expression data are supported by functional studies demonstrating the impact of the IFITM1 and IFITM3 proteins on the adhesive, migratory and invasive capabilities of cervical cancer cells, as well as their interactions with immune cells.