Key subunits of γ-secretase complex and breast cancer progression: biological function, regulation mode and
1Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China.
Abstract:
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignant tumor among females. The primary therapeutic options currently available include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, the emergence of drug resistance has resulted in a gradual decline in the efficacy of these treatments. The activation of the Notch signaling pathway is closely associated with the development and progression of breast cancer. γ-secretase, a crucial hydrolase in the Notch pathway, consists of four subunits: presenilin 1 and 2 (PSEN1 and 2), presenilin enhancer 2 (PEN-2), Nicastrin (NCSTN), and anterior pharynx defective 1 (APH-1). These subunits interact to maintain the overall biological function and stability of the complex. This review utilizes the key subunits of γ-secretase as a focal point to elucidate the structure-function relationships, interactions, and their relevance to the progression of breast cancer for each complex subunit, and the preclinical studies and clinical trials were discussed, emphasizing the relationship between the key subunits of γ-secretase complex and the pathogenesis of BC. Furthermore, the challenges and prospects of γ-secretase inhibitors as potential therapies for chemoresistance in breast cancer were discussed.
Insights
This review explores how γ-secretase subunits contribute to breast cancer (BC) progression and chemoresistance. Targeting these subunits offers potential new therapies for overcoming treatment resistance in BC.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of cancer death in women.
- Current treatments like chemotherapy face challenges due to emerging drug resistance.
- The Notch signaling pathway is implicated in BC development and progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure-function relationships and interactions of key γ-secretase subunits.
- To elucidate the role of γ-secretase subunits in breast cancer pathogenesis.
- To discuss the potential of γ-secretase inhibitors for overcoming BC chemoresistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on γ-secretase subunits (PSEN1, PSEN2, PEN-2, NCSTN, APH-1).
- Analysis of preclinical studies and clinical trials.
- Examination of structure-function relationships and subunit interactions.
Main Results:
- Detailed elucidation of γ-secretase subunit roles in BC progression.
- Emphasis on the link between γ-secretase complex and BC pathogenesis.
- Discussion of preclinical and clinical data regarding γ-secretase and BC.
Conclusions:
- γ-secretase complex plays a significant role in breast cancer.
- Targeting γ-secretase subunits presents a promising therapeutic strategy for chemoresistant breast cancer.
- Further research into γ-secretase inhibitors is warranted for BC treatment.
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