Rho GTPase function in tumorigenesis

Biochim Biophys Acta. 2009 Dec;1796(2):91-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2009.03.003. Epub 2009 Mar 24.

Abstract

Malignant tumor cells display uncontrolled proliferation, loss of epithelial cell polarity, altered interactions with neighboring cells and the surrounding extracellular matrix, and enhanced migratory properties. Proteins of the Rho GTPase family regulate all these processes in cell culture and, for that reason, Rho GTPases, their regulators, and their effectors have been suggested to control tumor formation and progression in humans. However, while the tumor-relevant functions of Rho GTPases are very well documented in vitro, we are only now beginning to assess their contribution to cancer in human patients and in animal models. This review will give a very brief overview of Rho GTPase function in general and then focus on in vivo evidence for a role of Rho GTPases in malignant tumors, both in human patients and in genetically modified mice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Cycle
  • Cell Movement
  • Cell Polarity
  • Cell Survival
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / etiology
  • Signal Transduction
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins / physiology*
  • rhoA GTP-Binding Protein / physiology
  • rhoB GTP-Binding Protein / physiology
  • rhoC GTP-Binding Protein

Substances

  • RHOC protein, human
  • rho GTP-Binding Proteins
  • rhoA GTP-Binding Protein
  • rhoB GTP-Binding Protein
  • rhoC GTP-Binding Protein