Role of ENPP1 in cancer pathogenesis: Mechanisms and clinical implications (Review)

Lujie Zhao1, Yu Zhang1, Yahui Tian1

  • 1School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261021, P.R. China.

Oncology Letters
|October 16, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) is upregulated in many cancers and drives tumor growth. Inhibitors targeting ENPP1 show promise for cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Cancer is a leading global cause of death, posing significant health and economic challenges.
  • Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase (ENPP) enzymes are involved in critical cellular processes, including purine metabolism and signaling.
  • ENPP1, a specific member of the ENPP family, is frequently upregulated in various tumor types.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the structural, pathological, and physiological roles of ENPP1.
  • To explore the mechanisms by which ENPP1 contributes to the development of breast, colon, gallbladder, liver, and lung cancers.
  • To summarize key signaling pathways implicated in tumor progression and the role of ENPP1 within them.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of ENPP1's function in cancer.
  • Analysis of ENPP1's involvement in cell migration, proliferation, and invasion.
  • Summary of developed ENPP1 inhibitors and their clinical characterization.

Main Results:

  • ENPP1 is implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple human cancers.
  • ENPP1 plays a critical role in promoting cancer cell migration, proliferation, and invasion.
  • Inhibitors targeting ENPP1 have been developed and are undergoing clinical evaluation.

Conclusions:

  • ENPP1 is a significant factor in cancer development and progression.
  • Targeting ENPP1 represents a potential therapeutic strategy for various cancers.
  • Further research and clinical characterization of ENPP1 inhibitors are warranted.

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