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Annexin A1, A2, A5, and A6 involvement in human pathologies
Luiz Philipe de Souza Ferreira1, Rafael André da Silva2, Cristiane D Gil1,2
1Department of Morphology and Genetics, Structural and Functional Biology Graduate Program, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM/UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil.
Proteins
|May 23, 2023
Summary
Annexins are key eukaryotic proteins involved in cell membrane interactions and stress responses. Research highlights their roles in human pathologies like cancer, with specific annexins (AnxA1, 2, 5, 6) showing promise as therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
Background:
- Annexins are a family of highly homologous proteins found across eukaryotes, crucial for membrane interactions.
- Their diverse functions are still being elucidated after decades of research, with roles extending beyond development to stress response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure and function of four key human annexins (AnxA1, 2, 5, and 6).
- To explore their roles in cellular dysfunction, human pathologies, and as potential therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on annexin structure, function, and expression.
- Analysis of gene knockdown/knockout studies.
- Focus on translational research findings.
Main Results:
- Annexins act as crucial 'early responders' to cellular stress.
- AnxA1, 2, 5, and 6 are implicated in diverse pathologies, particularly cancer and inflammation.
- Aberrant annexin expression can disrupt homeostasis.
Conclusions:
- Selected annexins (AnxA1, 2, 5, 6) are significant in human health and disease.
- They serve as potential biomarkers for cellular dysfunction and targets for novel therapies.
- Understanding annexin expression balance is critical for maintaining tissue homeostasis.
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