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The rationale for targeting the LOX family in cancer

Holly E Barker1, Thomas R Cox, Janine T Erler

  • 1Hypoxia & Metastasis Team, The Institute of Cancer Research, London SW3 6JB, UK.

Nature Reviews. Cancer
|July 20, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Targeting extracellular lysyl oxidase (LOX) proteins, crucial in the tumor microenvironment, offers a promising new strategy for cancer therapeutics by addressing their roles in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Therapeutics

Background:

  • The tumor microenvironment is increasingly recognized as critical for cancer initiation and progression.
  • Extracellular proteins secreted by tumors, such as the lysyl oxidase (LOX) family, play significant roles in cancer.
  • Understanding the multifaceted roles of LOX proteins is essential for developing effective cancer treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the roles of lysyl oxidase (LOX) family members in remodeling the tumor microenvironment.
  • To discuss the paradoxical functions of LOX proteins in tumorigenesis and metastasis.
  • To explore the potential of targeting LOX proteins as a novel cancer therapeutic strategy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating lysyl oxidase (LOX) family proteins in cancer.
  • Analysis of the impact of LOX family members on tumor microenvironment remodeling.
  • Examination of the dual roles of LOX in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis.

Main Results:

  • Lysyl oxidase (LOX) family proteins significantly contribute to the alteration of the tumor microenvironment.
  • LOX proteins exhibit complex and sometimes contradictory roles in promoting and potentially inhibiting tumor development and spread.
  • Evidence suggests that targeting LOX family proteins could offer a new therapeutic avenue for various cancers.

Conclusions:

  • The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family is a key player in cancer, influencing the tumor microenvironment and disease progression.
  • Targeting LOX proteins presents a promising, albeit complex, strategy for future cancer therapies.
  • Further research into the specific functions and interactions of LOX family members is warranted to optimize therapeutic approaches.

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