CD147/Basigin: From Integrative Molecular Hub to Translational Therapeutic Target

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• CD147 (Basigin/EMMPRIN), an immunoglobulin superfamily member, regulates physiological processes like spermatogenesis and neural function.
• Pathological CD147 overexpression drives tumor progression, immune evasion, and metabolic reprogramming, serving as a prognostic biomarker.
• CD147 acts as a pathogen entry receptor and is implicated in cardiovascular, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular structure, isoforms, post-translational modifications, and signaling pathways of CD147.
• To highlight CD147's diverse roles in cancer, infection, autoimmunity, and cardiovascular disease.
• To discuss challenges and propose strategies for targeting CD147 as a precision biomarker and therapeutic agent.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing current research on CD147.
• Analysis of CD147's interactions with key molecules like MCTs, integrins, and CyPA.
• Examination of CD147's role in various pathological conditions and disease models.

Main Results:

• CD147 functions as an "Energy-Structure Coupler," linking metabolic flux with morphogenetic plasticity.
• It orchestrates critical cellular processes and contributes to disease pathogenesis.
• CD147's multifaceted roles underscore its significance across multiple scientific domains.

Conclusions:

• CD147 is a pivotal regulator with diverse functions in health and disease.
• Understanding CD147's structure and signaling is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
• Addressing the "specificity paradox" is key to exploiting CD147 effectively as a biomarker and therapeutic target.