The Role of the Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein Family in Cancer Development, Invasion, and Metastasis

Emerging evidence indicates that cancer metastasis is governed by distinct genetic mechanisms that operate independently of those regulating carcinogenesis and cancer proliferation. The Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP) family members significantly contribute to the regulation of actin cytoskeleton (AC) dynamics and cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Recent research has demonstrated that WASP and its homolog, the WASP family verprolin-homologous protein (WAVE), function as a master regulator and a key scaffolding protein, bringing together the various components of metastatic signaling complexes, thereby facilitating the development of solid tumors. The occurrence and progression of aggressive hematologic neoplasia can also be affected by WASP mutations. Recent research reveals that WASPs and WAVEs can act as either suppressors or enhancers of cancer malignancy, depending on the clinical or preclinical scenarios. WASPs and WAVEs' dual roles in cancer possibly originate from their diverse involvement in cell biology, which might be a novel approach to developing anticancer drugs. Therefore, this review aims to examine the role of the WASP family in cancer progression by focusing on their signaling network and molecular processes in both solid and hematological malignancies.