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Research progress on TMEM proteins in cancer progression and chemoresistance (Review)

Ji Shi1, Duo Zheng2, Bing Yao3

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning 110042, P.R. China.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine
|October 10, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Transmembrane (TMEM) proteins are crucial in cancer progression and chemoresistance. Targeting TMEM proteins offers a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance and improve cancer treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Transmembrane (TMEM) proteins are integral membrane proteins involved in vital cellular processes.
  • Dysregulation of TMEM proteins is linked to tumor progression and chemoresistance in various cancers.
  • TMEM proteins regulate key cellular functions such as signal transduction, ion transport, and homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of TMEM proteins in cancer.
  • To explore the structural features, biological functions, and regulatory mechanisms of key TMEM proteins.
  • To highlight the role of TMEM proteins in chemoresistance and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review of TMEM proteins in cancer research.
  • Analysis of structural features and biological functions of key TMEM proteins.
  • Investigation of regulatory mechanisms, including epigenetic modifications, in TMEM-mediated chemoresistance.

Main Results:

  • TMEM proteins are implicated in breast, ovarian, lung, and thyroid cancers.
  • Specific TMEM proteins (e.g., TMEM45A, TMEM158) contribute to platinum-based chemotherapy resistance.
  • Epigenetic regulation, such as TMEM88 promoter methylation, influences chemoresistance.
  • TMEM proteins interact with the tumor microenvironment, impacting cancer progression.

Conclusions:

  • TMEM proteins play a significant role in cancer development and chemoresistance.
  • Targeting TMEM proteins presents a viable strategy for overcoming drug resistance.
  • Further research into TMEM proteins and their interactions can lead to novel cancer therapeutics.
Keywords:
TMEM proteinsbiomarkerchemoresistancetherapeutic targetstumorigenesis

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