Title:Insights into Targeting Colon Cancer Cell Fate at the Level of Proteoglycans / Glycosaminoglycans
Volume: 19
Issue: 25
Author(s): D. Nikitovic, G. Chatzinikolaou, J. Tsiaoussis, A. Tsatsakis, N. K. Karamanos and G. N. Tzanakakis
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Colorectal cancer, glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, therapeutic targets, tumor cell signaling, hyaluronan, chondroitin sulfate, heparan sulfate, metastasis, glycan-based therapy
Abstract: Proteoglycans (PGs), glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and hyaluronan as a free GAG, have unique structural characteristics which
enable them via specific interactions with matrix proteins and cell surface receptors to regulate key tumor cell functions and thus to affect
cancer growth and progression. This article explores the many layers of interdependent signaling among transformed colon epithelial
cells, neighboring stromal cells and their respective PGs / GAGs components along the insidious and often deadly route of colon cancer
progression. Specifically addressed is the altered deposition of PGs / GAGs by colon cancer cells; the effects of these malignant cells on
gene expression and biosynthesis of PGs / GAGs of the surrounding stromal cells and the signaling pathways involved, with the utmost
goal to highlight potential therapeutic targets in the rapidly developing field of glycan-based therapy.
