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Updated: Apr 8, 2026

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Published on: January 28, 2020
L1CAM in human cancer.
Peter Altevogt1, Kai Doberstein2, Mina Fogel3
1Skin Cancer Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany and Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM), initially key in neural development, is now recognized as a tumor antigen. Its expression in cancers correlates with poor prognosis, making it a target for diagnostics and therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) is crucial for nervous system development.
- L1CAM is aberrantly expressed in various human cancers, often linked to poor prognosis.
- L1CAM promotes cancer cell motility and invasion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To trace the evolution of L1CAM's role from a neural molecule to a tumor antigen.
- To review L1CAM expression in cancers and pre-cancerous lesions.
- To highlight genetic factors in L1CAM re-expression and preclinical targeted therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of L1CAM expression in cancer.
- Analysis of genetic elements driving L1CAM re-expression.
- Summary of preclinical targeted therapy studies.
Main Results:
- L1CAM expression is observed in numerous cancers and pre-cancerous conditions.
- Specific genetic elements are implicated in the re-expression of L1CAM in tumors.
- Preclinical studies show promise for L1CAM-targeted therapies.
Conclusions:
- L1CAM serves as a valuable diagnostic and prognostic marker in cancer.
- L1CAM represents an attractive therapeutic target for multiple human cancers.
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