Expression and Role of Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) in Tumors: From the Cells to the Patients
Guohua Zhu1,2, Jukun Song2,3, Weimin Chen3
1Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550002, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) is a secretory antagonist of the classical Wnt signaling pathway. Many studies have reported that Dkk1 is abnormally expressed in tumor cells, and abnormal expression of Dkk1 can inhibit cell proliferation or induce apoptosis through pro-apoptotic factors, However, due to the differences in tumor environment and the complex regulatory mechanisms in different tumors, Dkk1 has different effects on the progression of different tumors. In many tumors, high expression of Dkk1 may promote tumor metastasis. However, Dkk1, which is highly expressed in other tumors, can inhibit tumor invasion and metastasis. More and more evidence shows that Dkk1 plays a complex and different role in tumor occurrence, development and metastasis in different tumor environments and through a variety of complex regulatory mechanisms. Therefore, Dkk1 may not only be a useful biomarker of metastasis, but also a target for studying the metabolic mechanism of tumor cells and treating tumors in many tumor types. Therefore, this article reviews the research progress on the expression, mechanism and function of Dkk1 in different tumors, and at the same time, based on the public database data, we made a further analysis of the expression of Dkk1 in different tumors.
Insights
Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1), a Wnt pathway antagonist, shows complex roles in tumors. Its abnormal expression can impact tumor growth, metastasis, and serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) is a secreted antagonist of the Wnt signaling pathway.
- Abnormal Dkk1 expression is frequently observed in various tumor cells.
- Dkk1's role in cancer is context-dependent due to complex regulatory mechanisms and tumor microenvironments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research progress on Dkk1 expression, mechanisms, and functions across different tumor types.
- To perform further analysis of Dkk1 expression in diverse tumors using public database data.
- To highlight Dkk1's potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Dkk1 in tumor cells.
- Analysis of public database data for Dkk1 expression patterns in various cancers.
- Synthesis of current understanding regarding Dkk1's dual role in tumor progression.
Main Results:
- Dkk1 exhibits varied effects on tumor cell proliferation and apoptosis.
- High Dkk1 expression can either promote or inhibit tumor metastasis and invasion.
- Dkk1's function is significantly influenced by the specific tumor microenvironment and regulatory networks.
Conclusions:
- Dkk1 plays a complex and multifaceted role in tumor occurrence, development, and metastasis.
- Dkk1 holds promise as a biomarker for metastasis and a potential target for cancer therapy.
- Further investigation into Dkk1's mechanisms is crucial for understanding tumor biology and developing treatments.
Related Concept Videos
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
The Tumor Microenvironment
Canonical Wnt Signaling Pathway
Inhibition of Cdk Activity


