An Insight into GPCR and G-Proteins as Cancer Drivers
Preeti Kumari Chaudhary1, Soochong Kim1
1Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology and Platelet Signaling, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea.
Abstract:
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface signaling receptors known to play a crucial role in various physiological functions, including tumor growth and metastasis. Various molecules such as hormones, lipids, peptides, and neurotransmitters activate GPCRs that enable the coupling of these receptors to highly specialized transducer proteins, called G-proteins, and initiate multiple signaling pathways. Integration of these intricate networks of signaling cascades leads to numerous biochemical responses involved in diverse pathophysiological activities, including cancer development. While several studies indicate the role of GPCRs in controlling various aspects of cancer progression such as tumor growth, invasion, migration, survival, and metastasis through its aberrant overexpression, mutations, or increased release of agonists, the explicit mechanisms of the involvement of GPCRs in cancer progression is still puzzling. This review provides an insight into the various responses mediated by GPCRs in the development of cancers, the molecular mechanisms involved and the novel pharmacological approaches currently preferred for the treatment of cancer. Thus, these findings extend the knowledge of GPCRs in cancer cells and help in the identification of therapeutics for cancer patients.
Insights
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial in cancer progression. This review explores GPCRs
Area of Science:
- Oncology and Molecular Biology: Focuses on cell surface receptors and their role in cancer.
Background:
- G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are key cell surface signaling receptors involved in numerous physiological functions.
- GPCRs mediate cellular responses to various external molecules like hormones and neurotransmitters.
- Aberrant GPCR activity is implicated in cancer development, affecting tumor growth, metastasis, and survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide insights into the diverse responses mediated by GPCRs in cancer development.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying GPCR involvement in cancer progression.
- To review novel pharmacological approaches for targeting GPCRs in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of existing literature on GPCRs in cancer.
- It synthesizes information on GPCR signaling pathways and their connection to cancer.
- The review also covers current and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting GPCRs.
Main Results:
- GPCRs play a significant role in various stages of cancer, including tumor growth, invasion, migration, survival, and metastasis.
- While GPCRs' involvement in cancer is recognized, the precise molecular mechanisms remain complex and require further investigation.
- Aberrant GPCR expression, mutations, or agonist release contribute to cancer progression.
Conclusions:
- Understanding GPCRs' multifaceted roles in cancer is essential for developing effective treatments.
- This review enhances knowledge of GPCRs in cancer cells, aiding in the identification of potential therapeutic targets.
- Novel pharmacological strategies targeting GPCRs offer promising avenues for cancer patient treatment.
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