Glycogen synthase kinase 3β in tumorigenesis and oncotherapy (Review)
Rui He1, Suya Du2, Tiantian Lei3
1Department of Union, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China.
Abstract:
Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK 3β), a multifunctional serine and threonine kinase, plays a critical role in a variety of cellular activities, including signaling transduction, protein and glycogen metabolism, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and apoptosis. Therefore, aberrant regulation of GSK 3β results in a broad range of human diseases, such as tumors, diabetes, inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Accumulating evidence has suggested that GSK 3β is correlated with tumorigenesis and progression. However, GSK 3β is controversial due to its bifacial roles of tumor suppression and activation. In addition, overexpression of GSK 3β is involved in tumor growth, whereas it contributes to the cell sensitivity to chemotherapy. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of GSK 3β in tumorigenesis remain obscure and require further in‑depth investigation. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the roles of GSK 3β in tumorigenesis and oncotherapy, and focus on its potentials as an available target in oncotherapy.
Insights
Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) has dual roles in cancer, promoting and suppressing tumors. Further research is needed to understand its complex mechanisms in tumorigenesis and its potential as an anticancer therapy target.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) is a key kinase regulating diverse cellular processes.
- Dysregulation of GSK3β is implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
- GSK3β's specific role in tumorigenesis is complex, exhibiting both tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the multifaceted roles of GSK3β in cancer development and progression.
- To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of GSK3β in tumorigenesis.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of targeting GSK3β in oncotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GSK3β in cancer.
- Analysis of experimental data on GSK3β's function in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism.
- Synthesis of information regarding GSK3β's involvement in tumor suppression and activation.
Main Results:
- GSK3β overexpression is linked to tumor growth but can enhance chemotherapy sensitivity.
- The precise regulatory mechanisms of GSK3β in cancer remain incompletely understood.
- GSK3β demonstrates a controversial, bifacial role in tumorigenesis, acting as both a tumor suppressor and promoter.
Conclusions:
- GSK3β is a critical regulator in tumorigenesis with complex, context-dependent functions.
- Understanding GSK3β's dual role is essential for developing effective cancer therapies.
- GSK3β presents a promising target for novel oncotherapy strategies.
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