GKB7I-53: A novel anti-metastatic agent for colorectal cancer.

Metastasis driven by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) remains a critical challenge in colorectal cancer treatment. This study investigated GKB7I-53, a saponin compound isolated through feature-based molecular networking, as a potential therapeutic agent targeting EMT pathways. GKB7I-53 demonstrated minimal cytotoxicity (>90% cell viability at 50 μM) while effectively inhibiting metastatic processes. The compound downregulated mesenchymal markers (CXCR4, CXCR7) and upregulated epithelial markers (E-cadherin, occludin), suppressing EMT progression. In CXCL12-stimulated cells, GKB7I-53 significantly reduced cell migration and invasion while decreasing MMP-2/9 activity, key enzymes facilitating metastatic spread. Mechanistically, GKB7I-53 suppressed MnSOD-induced STAT3 activation, thereby blocking the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway crucial for metastasis. Molecular docking studies confirmed strong binding affinity to target proteins involved in EMT and cancer progression. These findings suggest that GKB7I-53 may serve as a potential lead compound with anti-metastatic properties in colorectal cancer. Rather than inducing general cytotoxicity, GKB7I-53 selectively modulates EMT-related pathways, indicating a mechanistic basis for its anti-metastatic effects. However, further in vivo validation and preclinical studies are required to determine its therapeutic relevance.