Annexin A2: its molecular regulation and cellular expression in cancer development
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Updated: May 2, 2026

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Published on: September 15, 2023
Chi-Yun Wang1, Chiou-Feng Lin1
1Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan 701, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Annexin A2 (ANXA2) orchestrates multiple biologic processes and clinical associations, especially in cancer progression. The structure of ANXA2 affects its cellular localization and function. However, posttranslational modification and protease-mediated N-terminal cleavage also play critical roles in regulating ANXA2. ANXA2 expression levels vary among different types of cancers. With some cancers, ANXA2 can be used for the detection and diagnosis of cancer and for monitoring cancer progression. ANXA2 is also required for drug-resistance. This review discusses the feasibility of ANXA2 which is active in cancer development and can be a therapeutic target in cancer management.
Insights
Annexin A2 (ANXA2) plays a key role in cancer progression, influencing its development, detection, and drug resistance. Targeting ANXA2 presents a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer management.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Annexin A2 (ANXA2) is a protein involved in various biological processes.
- Its structure, posttranslational modifications, and proteolytic cleavage critically regulate its function and cellular localization.
- ANXA2 expression is notably altered in various cancer types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of Annexin A2 (ANXA2) in cancer development.
- To explore the potential of ANXA2 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in oncology.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing research on Annexin A2.
- It analyzes studies focusing on ANXA2's structure-function relationships, posttranslational modifications, and expression patterns in cancer.
- Literature was examined for ANXA2's involvement in cancer progression, diagnosis, and therapeutic resistance.
Main Results:
- ANXA2's expression levels differ across various cancers, suggesting its potential utility in cancer detection and diagnosis.
- ANXA2 is implicated in key cancer processes, including progression and the development of drug resistance.
- Its activity in cancer development highlights its significance.
Conclusions:
- Annexin A2 (ANXA2) is a significant factor in cancer development and progression.
- ANXA2 holds potential as a biomarker for cancer detection, diagnosis, and monitoring.
- Targeting ANXA2 is a feasible and promising therapeutic strategy for improved cancer management.
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