ISG20: The multifaceted 'molecular star' in cancer research (Review)

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Molecular Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Interferon-stimulated gene (ISG)20 is integral to antiviral defense, immune regulation, and cell metabolism via its exonuclease activity.
• ISG20 dysregulation is observed in clear cell renal cell carcinoma, glioma, breast cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma, correlating with tumor progression and immune evasion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the discovery, structure, and functions of ISG20.
• To elucidate the multifaceted roles of ISG20 in tumor development and its dual regulatory functions in cancer biology.
• To discuss ISG20's potential as a biomarker, immunoadjuvant, and therapeutic target for precision oncology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ISG20's discovery, structure, and functions.
• Analysis of ISG20's involvement in various malignancies.
• Examination of ISG20's signaling pathways (e.g., MMP9/CCND1, IFN-β).

Main Results:

• ISG20 exhibits dual roles: promoting tumor progression via MMP9/CCND1 and enhancing antitumor immunity via IFN-β.
• Dysregulation of ISG20 is linked to tumor proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, and immune evasion in multiple cancers.
• ISG20's complex involvement in tumor biology is highlighted by its diverse regulatory functions.

Conclusions:

• ISG20 is a critical factor in cancer development with significant implications for tumor biology.
• ISG20 presents potential as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target in precision oncology.
• Further research into ISG20 could offer translational insights for cancer treatment and immunotherapy.