CD36 as a double-edged sword in cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• CD36 is a multifunctional membrane protein involved in lipid transport and immune responses.
• It is expressed on cancer cells and various immune cells within the tumor microenvironment.
• CD36's role in cancer is complex, with reported pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of CD36 in tumor progression.
• To elucidate the contradictory functions of CD36 in cancer growth, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance.
• To explore the implications of CD36's diverse functions for therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating CD36 in cancer.
• Analysis of research on CD36's interactions with cancer cells and immune cells.
• Synthesis of data on CD36's impact on cancer hallmarks and cellular processes.

Main Results:

• CD36 exhibits context-dependent pro-cancer activities, promoting tumor growth and metastasis.
• Conversely, CD36 can also exert anti-cancer effects, inhibiting angiogenesis and enhancing immune surveillance.
• Conflicting evidence exists regarding CD36's influence on drug resistance and cellular processes like division, senescence, and death.

Conclusions:

• CD36 presents a paradoxical role in cancer, acting as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor.
• The diverse and often opposing functions of CD36 highlight the need for nuanced therapeutic approaches.
• Targeting CD36 may offer novel strategies for cancer treatment, but requires careful consideration of its dual nature.