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Characterization of Cell Membrane Extensions and Studying Their Roles in Cancer Cell Adhesion Dynamics
Published on: March 26, 2018
Aberrant expression and functions of protocadherins in human malignant tumors
Ming Shan1, Yonghui Su1, Wenli Kang2
1Department of Breast Surgery, the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
Abstract:
Protocadherins (PCDHs) are a group of transmembrane proteins belonging to the cadherin superfamily and are subdivided into "clustered" and "non-clustered" groups. PCDHs vary in both structure and interaction partners and thus regulate multiple biological responses in complex and versatile patterns. Previous researches showed that PCDHs regulated the development of brain and were involved in some neuronal diseases. Recently, studies have revealed aberrant expression of PCDHs in various human malignant tumors. The down-regulation or absence of PCDHs in malignant cells has been associated with cancer progression. Further researches suggest that PCDHs may play major functions as tumor suppressor by inhibiting the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells. In this review, we focus on the altered expression of PCDHs and their roles in the development of cancer progression. We also discuss the potential mechanisms, by which PCDHs are aberrantly expressed, and its implications in regulating cancers.
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