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Published on: June 29, 2016
Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1): From molecular functions to clinical applications in cancer investigation
Wen-Jing Qian1, Jin-Shan Yan2, Xiao-Yu Gang2
1Department of Pathology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
Insights
Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) has a dual role in cancer, boosting antitumor immunity while also aiding tumor evasion and metastasis. Research explores anti-ICAM-1 therapies for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is a key molecule in cellular interactions.
- ICAM-1 exhibits a bidirectional role in tumor development, influencing both antitumor immunity and tumor progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding ICAM-1's role in tumor development.
- To explore ICAM-1's relevance in predicting therapeutic efficacy and prognosis.
- To summarize progress in clinical translational research on anti-ICAM-1-based therapies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of ICAM-1 in cancer.
- Analysis of ICAM-1's involvement in immune cell migration, tumor evasion, and metastasis.
- Evaluation of clinical data for anti-ICAM-1 therapies.
Main Results:
- ICAM-1 enhances antitumor immune responses through immune cell recruitment and synapse formation.
- ICAM-1 promotes tumor immune evasion, metastasis via transendothelial migration and EMT, and epigenetic modifications.
- Clinical research is advancing for anti-ICAM-1 therapies including monoclonal antibodies, immunotherapy, and antibody-drug conjugates.
Conclusions:
- ICAM-1 is a significant and versatile target for cancer treatment.
- Further research and clinical translation of anti-ICAM-1 strategies are crucial for enhancing cancer therapy.
- Targeting ICAM-1 holds promise for improving patient prognosis and therapeutic efficacy.
Abstract:
Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is a versatile molecule that plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes, particularly in tumor development where its impact is bidirectional. On the one hand, it augments the immune response by promoting immune cell migration, infiltration, and the formation of immunological synapses, thus facilitating potent antitumor effects. Simultaneously, it contributes to tumor immune evasion and influences metastasis by mediating transendothelial migration (TEM), epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and epigenetic modification of tumor cells. Despite its significant potential, the full clinical utility of ICAM-1 has yet to be fully realized. In this review, we thoroughly examine recent advancements in understanding the role of ICAM-1 in tumor development, its relevance in predicting therapeutic efficacy and prognosis, as well as the progress in clinical translational research on anti-ICAM-1-based therapies, encompassing including monoclonal antibodies, immunotherapy, antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), and conventional treatments. By shedding light on these innovative strategies, we aim to underscore ICAM-1's significance as a valuable and multifaceted target for cancer treatment, igniting enthusiasm for further research and facilitating translation into clinical applications.
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