NFAT signaling dysregulation in cancer: Emerging roles in cancer stem cells

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) was initially identified as a key regulator in T cell activation.
• The NFAT family of transcription factors plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including immune responses and tumor development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the multifaceted roles of the NFAT family in the immune system.
• To explore the involvement of NFAT in the progression of diverse cancer types, with a focus on cancer stem cells.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on NFAT.
• Analysis of recent discoveries linking NFAT to cancer biology and immunology.

Main Results:

• NFAT proteins are critical regulators of inflammatory and immune responses.
• Emerging evidence highlights NFAT's mechanisms in promoting cancer progression via cancer stem cells (CSCs).

Conclusions:

• The NFAT family is a significant player in both immune system function and the pathogenesis of various cancers.
• Further investigation into NFAT's role in cancer, especially concerning CSCs, is warranted.