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The role of epidermal growth factor-like module containing mucin-like hormone receptor 2 in human cancers
Michael Safaee1, Michael E Ivan1, Michael C Oh1
1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California , San Francisco, CA, USA.
Abstract:
G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are among the most diverse and ubiquitous proteins in all of biology. The epidermal growth factor-seven span transmembrane (EGF-TM7) subfamily of adhesion GPCRs is a small subset whose members are mainly expressed on the surface of leukocytes. The EGF domains on the N-terminus add significant size to these receptors and they are considered to be among the largest members of the TM7 family. Although not all of their ligands or downstream targets have been identified, there is evidence implicating the EGF-TM7 family diverse processes such as cell adhesion, migration, inflammation, and autoimmune disease. Recent studies have identified expression of EGF-TM7 family members on human neoplasms including those of the thyroid, stomach, colon, and brain. Their presence on these tissues is not surprising given the ubiquity of GPCRs, but because their functional significance and pathways are not completely understood, they are of tremendous clinical and scientific interest. Current evidence suggests that expression of certain EGF-TM7 receptors is correlated with tumor grade, confers a more invasive phenotype, and increases the likelihood of metastatic disease. In this review, we will discuss the structure, function, and regulation of these receptors. We also describe the expression of these receptors in human cancers and explore their potential mechanistic significance.
Insights
Epidermal growth factor-seven span transmembrane (EGF-TM7) receptors, a type of G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), are implicated in cancer progression. Their expression correlates with tumor grade and invasiveness, highlighting their clinical significance.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a vast and vital protein family.
- The Epidermal growth factor-seven span transmembrane (EGF-TM7) subfamily of adhesion GPCRs is primarily found on leukocytes.
- EGF-TM7 receptors are among the largest TM7 family members due to their N-terminal EGF domains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure, function, and regulation of EGF-TM7 receptors.
- To discuss the expression of EGF-TM7 receptors in human cancers.
- To explore the potential mechanistic significance of EGF-TM7 receptors in oncogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on EGF-TM7 receptors.
- Analysis of data on EGF-TM7 receptor expression in various human neoplasms.
- Synthesis of current knowledge regarding EGF-TM7 receptor pathways and functions.
Main Results:
- EGF-TM7 family members are expressed on human neoplasms, including thyroid, stomach, colon, and brain cancers.
- Expression of certain EGF-TM7 receptors correlates with increased tumor grade.
- EGF-TM7 receptor presence is associated with a more invasive tumor phenotype and higher metastatic potential.
Conclusions:
- EGF-TM7 receptors are of significant clinical and scientific interest due to their role in cancer.
- Their involvement in cell adhesion, migration, and inflammation suggests a role in tumor progression.
- Further research into EGF-TM7 receptor pathways is crucial for understanding and potentially targeting cancer.
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