Current status and prospects of GREM1 research in cancer (Review)

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Gremlin 1 (GREM1) is a secreted protein involved in embryonic development and tissue differentiation.
• GREM1 antagonizes bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and inhibits transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β).
• GREM1 acts as a ligand for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 and influences epithelial-mesenchymal transition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted role and function of Gremlin 1 (GREM1) in the development and progression of various tumors.
• To explore GREM1's dual function in cancer, acting as a promoter in some and an inhibitor in others.
• To assess GREM1's potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in oncology.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Gremlin 1 (GREM1) expression and function in different cancer types.
• Analysis of GREM1's involvement in signaling pathways, including BMP and TGF-β.
• Examination of GREM1's impact on epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor metastasis.

Main Results:

• GREM1 is expressed in diverse tumor types and influences epithelial-mesenchymal transformation.
• In breast and colon cancer, GREM1 generally promotes tumor progression.
• Conversely, in pancreatic cancer, GREM1 overexpression inhibits tumor metastasis, indicating context-dependent roles.

Conclusions:

• Gremlin 1 (GREM1) exhibits complex and cancer-specific functions, acting as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor.
• GREM1 holds promise as a potential diagnostic and prognostic indicator in various malignancies.
• Future studies employing single-cell sequencing technology are crucial for a deeper understanding of GREM1's precise roles in tumors.