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Tight Junction Protein Signaling and Cancer Biology

Zeina Nehme1, Natascha Roehlen1,2, Punita Dhawan3,4,5

  • 1Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques UMR_S1110, 67000 Strasbourg, France.

Cells
|January 21, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Tight junctions (TJ) proteins regulate cell functions and tissue integrity. Dysregulated TJ proteins are implicated in cancer, influencing proliferation, migration, and therapeutic resistance, offering new treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Tight junctions (TJs) are critical for maintaining tissue homeostasis and cell polarity.
  • Emerging evidence shows TJ proteins have roles beyond TJs, including in cancer development.
  • TJ protein dysregulation is observed in response to various stimuli, particularly during tumorigenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted roles of TJ proteins in cancer biology.
  • To explore TJ proteins as signaling hubs modulating cancer hallmarks.
  • To discuss the potential of TJ proteins as therapeutic targets and prognostic markers.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
  • Analysis of TJ protein involvement in cell signaling pathways.
  • Examination of TJ protein expression in cancer contexts.

Main Results:

  • TJ proteins act as bidirectional signaling hubs, influencing cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation.
  • TJ proteins contribute to cancer hallmarks, including stem cell phenotypes and therapeutic resistance.
  • Altered TJ protein expression is linked to tumor growth and metastasis.

Conclusions:

  • TJ proteins play significant roles in cancer pathogenesis beyond their gatekeeper functions.
  • Targeting TJ proteins presents promising avenues for novel cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
  • Further research into TJ protein signaling is crucial for advancing cancer therapy.
Keywords:
carcinogenesissignaling pathwaystherapeutic targetstight junctions

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