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Published on: June 16, 2018
Guidance molecules in lung cancer
Patrick Nasarre1, Vincent Potiron, Harry Drabkin
1Medical University of South Carolina, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Charleston, SC, USA.
Abstract:
Guidance molecules were first described in the nervous system to control axon outgrowth direction. They are also widely expressed outside the nervous system where they control cell migration, tissue development and establishment of the vascular network. In addition, they are involved in cancer development, tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. This review is primarily focused on their functions in lung cancer and their involvement in lung development is also presented. Five guidance molecule families and their corresponding receptors are described, including the semaphorins/neuropilins/plexins, ephrins and Eph receptors, netrin/DCC/UNC5, Slit/Robo and Notch/Delta. In addition, the possibility to target these molecules as a therapeutic approach in cancer is discussed.
Insights
Guidance molecules regulate cell movement in development and cancer. This review focuses on their roles in lung cancer, exploring therapeutic targeting strategies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Guidance molecules control cell migration and tissue development in the nervous system and beyond.
- These molecules are implicated in cancer progression, including tumor angiogenesis and metastasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the functions of guidance molecules in lung development and lung cancer.
- To discuss the potential of targeting guidance molecules therapeutically for cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of guidance molecule families and their receptors.
- Analysis of roles in lung development and cancer biology.
Main Results:
- Five key guidance molecule families (semaphorins, ephrins, netrin, Slit, Notch) and their receptors are detailed.
- Their involvement in lung cancer development, angiogenesis, and metastasis is highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Guidance molecules play critical roles in lung development and cancer.
- Targeting these molecules offers a promising therapeutic avenue for lung cancer.
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