Important players in carcinogenesis as potential targets in cancer therapy: an update

Abstract

The development of cancer is a problem that has accompanied mankind for years. The growing number of cases, emerging drug resistance, and the need to reduce the serious side effects of pharmacotherapy are forcing scientists to better understand the complex mechanisms responsible for the initiation, promotion, and progression of the disease. This paper discusses the modulation of the particular stages of carcinogenesis by selected physiological factors, including: acetylcholine (ACh), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs), Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk), aquaporins (AQPs), insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2), and exosomes. Understanding their role may contribute to the development of more effective and safer therapies based on new binding sites.

Not Only Immune Escape—The Confusing Role of the TRP Metabolic Pathway in Carcinogenesis

“…Another reported mechanism, which contributes to migration, is the expression of aquaporin 4 (AQP4) observed in glioma cells after Kyn/AhR interaction [102]. Due to the regulation of cell volume, the contribution to filopodia formation and changes in shape, AQP4 enhances cell motility and metastasis [103,104]. Additionally, the high activity of this water channel was correlated with increased VEGF expression and related angiogenesis, as well as upraised metalloproteinase-2 activity [105,106].…”

Mesenchymal stem cells- derived exosomes inhibit the expression of Aquaporin-5 and EGFR in HCT-116 human colorectal carcinoma cell line

“…Aquaporins (AQPs) are the family of 13 transmembrane water channel proteins (AQP 0-12) which facilitate the transcellular transport of water, glycerol, hydrogen peroxide, and other small water-soluble material [5]. AQPs are widely distributed in various tissues throughout the body and have an indispensable effect on cell volume and water homeostasis [6].…”