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Published on: September 30, 2016
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.
Abstract:
Doublecortin-like kinase protein 1 (DCLK1) is a microtubule-associated protein with a C-terminal serine/threonine kinase domain. Its expression was first reported in radial glial cells, where it serves an essential role in early neurogenesis, and since then, other functions of the DCLK1 protein have also been identified. Initially considered to be a marker of quiescent gastrointestinal and pancreatic stem cells, DCLK1 has recently been identified in the gastrointestinal tract as a marker of tuft cells. It has also been implicated in different types of cancer, where it regulates several vital pathways, such as Kras signaling. However, its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The present review discusses the different roles of DCLK1 and its interactions with other proteins that are homologically similar to DCLK1 to develop a novel therapeutic strategy to target cancer cells more accurately.
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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