The Regulatory Mechanisms of Dynamin-Related Protein 1 in Tumor Development and Therapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cell Biology
• Mitochondrial Biology

Background:

• Tumor cells frequently develop drug resistance over time, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
• Mitochondrial dynamics, particularly fission regulated by dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), are increasingly recognized as critical factors in tumor progression and drug resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of Drp1-mediated mitochondrial fission in various aspects of tumor biology, including cell cycle, autophagy, apoptosis, migration, invasion, stemness, and metabolic reprogramming.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting Drp1 for overcoming drug resistance in cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies investigating dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and mitochondrial fission in cancer.
• Analysis of the molecular mechanisms linking Drp1 activity to tumor development, progression, and drug resistance.

Main Results:

• Drp1-mediated mitochondrial fission influences fundamental cellular processes crucial for tumor growth and metastasis.
• Targeted inhibition of Drp1 and mitochondrial fission has demonstrated potential in reducing tumor viability, proliferation, and stemness.
• Inhibiting Drp1 can enhance the sensitivity of tumor cells to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs.

Conclusions:

• Drp1 is a key regulator of mitochondrial dynamics and plays a significant role in tumor development and treatment resistance.
• Targeting Drp1 represents a promising therapeutic avenue for overcoming drug resistance and improving cancer treatment outcomes.
• Further research into specific Drp1 inhibitors is warranted for clinical application in combating drug-resistant tumors.