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Integration of Bioinformatics Approaches and Experimental Validations to Understand the Role of Notch Signaling in Ovarian Cancer
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The double-edged sword of Notch signaling in cancer

Andrew P South1, Raymond J Cho, Jon C Aster

  • 1Division of Cancer Research, Medical Research Institute, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.

Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology
|February 8, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Notch signaling plays a dual role in cancer, acting as both an oncogene and tumor suppressor based on cellular context. Recent genomic data reveal its complex involvement in human cancers, impacting disease progression and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Deep sequencing of cancer genomes has revealed extensive data on Notch signaling.
  • Notch signaling's role in cancer is complex and context-dependent.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pathogenic and translational significance of Notch signaling in human cancers.
  • To discuss the dual oncogenic and tumor suppressive roles of Notch signaling.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent deep sequencing cancer genome data.
  • Analysis of established and novel roles of Notch signaling in various cancers.

Main Results:

  • Notch signaling can be oncogenic or tumor suppressive depending on cellular context.
  • Findings were sometimes predicted by mouse models or developmental roles, but often were unanticipated.
  • Implication of Notch signaling in several human cancers.

Conclusions:

  • The context-specific roles of Notch signaling in cancer are critical for understanding its pathogenesis.
  • Translational significance lies in targeting Notch signaling for cancer therapy.

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