Glutathione transferases as mediators of signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation and cell death

Cell Death Differ. 2010 Sep;17(9):1373-80. doi: 10.1038/cdd.2010.80. Epub 2010 Jul 2.

Abstract

Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are enzymes that catalyze the conjugation of glutathione (GSH) to a variety of electrophilic substances. Their best known role is as cell housekeepers engaged in the detoxification of xenobiotics. Recently, GSTs have also been shown to act as modulators of signal transduction pathways that control cell proliferation and cell death. Their involvement in cancer cell growth and differentiation, and in the development of resistance to anticancer agents, has made them attractive drug targets. This review is focused on the inhibition of GSTs, in particular GSTP1-1, as a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of cancer and other diseases associated with aberrant cell proliferation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Death
  • Cell Proliferation*
  • Glutathione Transferase / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Glutathione Transferase / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction / physiology*

Substances

  • Glutathione Transferase