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Advances in S100 protein family for gynecological malignancies
Shenglong Wu1, Junfen Xu2,3
1Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang, China.
Abstract:
The S100 protein family comprises more than 20 structurally related members with diverse functions. These proteins regulate cellular responses by acting both as intracellular Ca2+ binding receptors and extracellular factors. Gynecological malignancies, characterized by tumors in the female reproductive system, like ovarian cancer (OC), cervical cancer (CC), and endometrial cancer (EC), cause significant harm to women's health. Dysregulated expression of certain S100 proteins is implicated not only in benign diseases but also in gynecological malignancies. Emerging in vitro evidence indicates these proteins play a key role in the occurrence and progression of such malignancies. Abnormal expression of specific S100 proteins contributes to malignancy progression by promoting proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance. Furthermore, abnormal levels of some S100 proteins in serum and tissues are associated with diagnosis and prognosis, making them potential biomarkers. This review provides an overview of recent findings on the involvement of the S100 protein family in gynecological malignancies and explores their regulatory mechanisms.
Insights
S100 proteins are involved in gynecological cancers like ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers. Their abnormal expression drives cancer growth and resistance, suggesting they are potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The S100 protein family has over 20 members with varied functions, acting intracellularly and extracellularly.
- Gynecological malignancies, including ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers, significantly impact women's health.
- Dysregulated S100 protein expression is linked to both benign conditions and gynecological cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the role of S100 proteins in gynecological malignancies.
- To explore the regulatory mechanisms of S100 proteins in cancer development and progression.
- To highlight the potential of S100 proteins as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of in vitro studies and clinical findings.
- Analysis of S100 protein expression patterns in gynecological cancers.
- Investigation of S100 protein involvement in cellular processes like proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance.
Main Results:
- Abnormal S100 protein expression is implicated in the initiation and progression of gynecological malignancies.
- Specific S100 proteins promote cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance.
- Altered S100 protein levels in serum and tissues correlate with diagnosis and prognosis.
Conclusions:
- S100 proteins play a critical role in the pathogenesis of gynecological cancers.
- These proteins represent promising biomarkers for early detection, diagnosis, and prognosis of gynecological malignancies.
- Targeting S100 proteins may offer novel therapeutic strategies for gynecological cancers.
