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Connexins-Therapeutic Targets in Cancers
Magdalena Nalewajska1, Małgorzata Marchelek-Myśliwiec1, Martyna Opara-Bajerowicz1
1Department of Nephrology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp 72 Street, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|December 3, 2020
Summary
Connexins (Cx) and hemichannels are crucial for cell communication and homeostasis. Their altered function is linked to diseases, including cancer, where they can promote or suppress tumor growth, offering therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Connexins (Cx) form gap junctions and hemichannels, mediating intercellular communication and affecting cell functions.
- Dysfunctional connexins are implicated in various diseases, including cancers, cardiac, brain, lung, and kidney disorders.
- Connexins play a dual role in cancer, potentially suppressing tumor growth or promoting invasiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer biology.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting connexin expression in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search conducted in PubMed and EMBASE up to February 2020.
- Keywords used: connexins, hemichannels, cancer, and cancer treatment.
Main Results:
- Connexins influence cell homeostasis, growth, and differentiation via metabolite exchange and signaling pathways.
- Connexin expression and function are altered in numerous diseases, notably cancer.
- Connexins exhibit context-dependent roles in tumorigenesis, affecting cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
Conclusions:
- Understanding connexin roles in cancer is vital for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
- Modulating connexin expression presents a promising therapeutic avenue for specific cancer types.
- Further research into selective connexin isoform modulation is a key challenge for effective cancer therapy.
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