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Published on: September 23, 2021
[Oncotoxic proteins in cancer therapy: mechanisms of action]
Abstract:
Cancer therapeutics based on protein biomolecules that exhibit selective toxic of inhibiting effects towards tumor cells without affecting normal tissue, are gaining extensive attention in cancer research. This heterogenous group of proteins consists of several subgroups, among them, are engineered cancer antigen-specific antibodies that suppress tumor growth by blocking proliferation-inducing receptors, or by direct action of a covalently attached toxin. Another subgroup of anticancer proteins that also represents promising potential therapeutic agents is oncotoxic proteins that can selectively trigger proapoptotic signaling in cancer cells. The oncotoxic proteins target such commonly disturbed processes in tumor calls as enhanced cell proliferation, altered cell-cycle control, deficient apoptotic response, inhibited mitochondrial respiration and activated glycolysis. The introduction of oncotoxic proteins to the clinic might substantially widen and upgrade modern arsenal of anticancer therapeutics.
Insights
Protein biomolecules offer targeted cancer therapy by selectively harming tumor cells. Oncotoxic proteins, a promising class, trigger cancer cell death by exploiting tumor-specific processes, potentially advancing cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Context:
- Protein biomolecules are increasingly investigated for cancer therapeutics due to their selective toxicity towards tumor cells.
- Engineered antibodies and oncotoxic proteins represent key subgroups with therapeutic potential.
- Tumor cells exhibit distinct biological processes, including altered cell proliferation, cell-cycle control, apoptosis, mitochondrial respiration, and glycolysis.
Purpose:
- To review the therapeutic potential of protein biomolecules, specifically oncotoxic proteins, in cancer treatment.
- To highlight the mechanisms by which oncotoxic proteins selectively target and eliminate cancer cells.
- To discuss the implications of introducing oncotoxic proteins into clinical practice for cancer therapy.
Summary:
- Protein-based therapeutics are gaining attention for their ability to selectively target cancer cells.
- Oncotoxic proteins are a promising subgroup that can induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells.
- These proteins exploit common abnormalities in cancer cells, such as uncontrolled proliferation and altered metabolism.
Impact:
- The development of oncotoxic proteins could significantly expand the range of available anticancer therapeutics.
- Targeted protein therapies offer the potential for reduced side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
- Successful clinical translation of oncotoxic proteins may lead to improved patient outcomes in cancer treatment.
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