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Updated: Jun 1, 2025

Fluorescence-based Monitoring of PAD4 Activity via a Pro-fluorescence Substrate Analog
Published on: November 5, 2014
DPP4, a potential tumor biomarker, and tumor therapeutic target: review
Lu Sun1, Yuhui Ma1, Chenchen Geng1
1Department of Ultrasound, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266035, China.
Abstract:
Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is a serine protease widely distributed in membrane-bound and soluble forms in various tissues and organs throughout the body. DPP4 plays a role in inflammation, immune regulation, cell growth, migration and differentiation. The role of DPP4 in tumors has garnered increasing attention. Previous research has demonstrated that DPP4 contributes to the promotion of cancer in most cancers, and it may play a specific biological function through the variation in tumor cell types and expression forms. However, the expression of DDP4 in different tumor types and its specific mechanism remains unclear. In this review, we describe the structure of DPP4, summarize the recent research progress of its expression and potential mechanisms in common tumors, and discuss the development prospects of DPP4 inhibitors in tumor therapy. Although current research emphasizes the potential of DPP4 as a drug target, the incomplete understanding of its regulatory mechanisms impedes the discovery and development of new therapies against it. Further research on DPP4-related tumors is anticipated to promote its clinical application as a potential therapeutic target.
Insights
Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is a key enzyme implicated in cancer promotion. Understanding DPP4
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is a serine protease with diverse physiological roles, including inflammation and cell regulation.
- DPP4's involvement in cancer promotion is increasingly recognized, though its specific functions across tumor types remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure of Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4).
- To summarize recent research on DPP4 expression and mechanisms in common tumors.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of DPP4 inhibitors in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on DPP4.
- Analysis of DPP4 expression patterns in various tumor types.
- Exploration of potential molecular mechanisms underlying DPP4's role in tumorigenesis.
Main Results:
- DPP4 expression varies across different cancer types, suggesting context-specific roles.
- DPP4 contributes to cancer promotion through diverse mechanisms.
- DPP4 inhibitors show promise as a therapeutic strategy.
Conclusions:
- DPP4 is a potential drug target for cancer therapy.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate DPP4's regulatory mechanisms in tumors.
- Understanding DPP4's role is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments.
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