Distinct Features of Doublecortin as a Marker of Neuronal Migration and Its Implications in Cancer Cell Mobility

Abstract

Neuronal migration is a critical process in the development of the nervous system. Defects in the migration of the neurons are associated with diseases like lissencephaly, subcortical band heterotopia (SBH), and pachygyria. Doublecortin (DCX) is an essential factor in neurogenesis and mutations in this protein impairs neuronal migration leading to several pathological conditions. Although, DCX is capable of modulating and stabilizing microtubules (MTs) to ensure effective migration, the mechanisms involved in executing these functions remain poorly understood. Meanwhile, there are existing gaps regarding the processes that underlie tumor initiation and progression into cancer as well as the ability to migrate and invade normal cells. Several studies suggest that DCX is involved in cancer metastasis. Unstable interactions between DCX and MTs destabilizes cytoskeletal organization leading to disorganized movements of cells, a process which may be implicated in the uncontrolled migration of cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanism is complex and require further clarification. Therefore, exploring the importance and features known up to date about this molecule will broaden our understanding and shed light on potential therapeutic approaches for the associated neurological diseases. This review summarizes current knowledge about DCX, its features, functions, and relationships with other proteins. We also present an overview of its role in cancer cells and highlight the importance of studying its gene mutations.

Transcriptomic analysis of α-synuclein knockdown after T3 spinal cord injury in rats

“…DCX, an essential factor in the differentiation and migration of newborn neurons, is used as a marker to detect the process of neural recruitment. In this study, immunofluorescence experiments confirmed that silencing α-Syn mainly upregulates muscarinic or nicotinic cholinergic receptors to promote DCX production, promote nerve regeneration at the injury site as well as improve motor function [28]. In summary, the mechanisms of Chrm2 and Chrm2 in this study complement each other.…”

Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Wharton’s Jelly Towards Neural Stem Cells Using a Feasible and Repeatable Protocol

“…see above nestin see above immature neurons DCX protein that facilitates microtubule polymerization, a marker of migrating neuroblasts and immature neurons [30] βIII tubulin microtubule protein, expressed in immature neurons and differentiated neurons [31] neurons MAP2 protein involved in the growth and assembly of microtubules, required for neurite formation in neurons [32] astrocytes GFAP see above S100β…”

Growth Hormone Promotes Motor Function after Experimental Stroke and Enhances Recovery-Promoting Mechanisms within the Peri-Infarct Area

“…Next, we analysed the levels of doublecortin (DCX), a marker of immature neurons [41]. DCX is a microtubule-associated protein, which is necessary in the proliferation of progenitor cells during neurogenesis [42,43]. Optical density of DCX immunofluorescence images within the peri-infarct region were quantitatively assessed using a threshold analysis protocol.…”