Modulation of Cellular Function by the Urokinase Receptor Signalling: A Mechanistic View

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), also known as CD87, is a GPI-anchored membrane protein.
• uPAR interacts with urokinase (uPA), vitronectin, and various transmembrane proteins, mediating pericellular proteolysis and signal transduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a mechanistic perspective on the diverse cellular responses to uPAR activities.
• To examine consolidated and recent studies on uPAR's multifaceted roles in physiological and pathological processes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on uPAR.
• Analysis of consolidated and recent studies detailing uPAR's functions.

Main Results:

• uPAR signaling influences cell migration, adhesion, survival, proliferation, and invasion.
• The uPA/uPAR axis is linked to cancer progression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and stem cell maintenance.
• Soluble uPAR levels are responsive to inflammatory stimuli, including tumorigenesis and viral infections, with increasing attention to its role in viral pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• uPAR is a critical regulator of cellular functions with significant implications in cancer, development, and infectious diseases.
• Understanding uPAR's complex mechanisms is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies against various pathologies.