DCLK1 and its interaction partners: An effective therapeutic target for colorectal cancer

Muthu Vijai1, Mursaleen Baba1, Satish Ramalingam1

  • 1Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Sri Ramaswamy Memorial (SRM) Nagar, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu 603203, India.

Oncology Letters
|November 4, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a protein involved in neurogenesis and stem cell biology. This review explores DCLK1

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a microtubule-associated protein with kinase activity.
  • Initially identified in radial glial cells for its role in neurogenesis.
  • DCLK1 is also recognized as a marker for quiescent stem cells and tuft cells in the gastrointestinal tract.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diverse functions of DCLK1.
  • To explore DCLK1's interactions with homologous proteins.
  • To propose novel therapeutic strategies targeting cancer cells via DCLK1.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of DCLK1 research.
  • Analysis of DCLK1's role in cell biology and cancer.
  • Exploration of DCLK1's protein interactions.

Main Results:

  • DCLK1 plays roles beyond neurogenesis, including in stem cell populations and cancer.
  • DCLK1 is implicated in regulating key cancer pathways like Kras signaling.
  • Understanding DCLK1's molecular mechanisms and interactions is crucial.

Conclusions:

  • DCLK1 has multifaceted roles in normal physiology and disease.
  • Further research into DCLK1's interactions can lead to targeted cancer therapies.
  • DCLK1 represents a potential therapeutic target for various cancers.

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