Publication:
Connexins in Cancer, the Possible Role of Connexin46 as a Cancer Stem Cell-Determining Protein

Date

2023

Authors

León, Isidora
Salgado, María
Novoa, María

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Research Projects

Organizational Units

Journal Issue

Abstract

Cancer is a widespread and incurable disease caused by genetic mutations, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis. Connexins (Cx) are transmembrane proteins that facilitate intercellular communication via hemichannels and gap junction channels. Among them, Cx46 is found mostly in the eye lens. However, in pathological conditions, Cx46 has been observed in various types of cancers, such as glioblastoma, melanoma, and breast cancer. It has been demonstrated that elevated Cx46 levels in breast cancer contribute to cellular resistance to hypoxia, and it is an enhancer of cancer aggressiveness supporting a pro-tumoral role. Accordingly, Cx46 is associated with an increase in cancer stem cell phenotype. These cells display radio- and chemoresistance, high proliferative abilities, self-renewal, and differentiation capacities. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge of the relationship between Cx46, its role in forming hemichannels and gap junctions, and its connection with cancer and cancer stem cells.

Description

Keywords

Connexin46, GJA3, breast cancer, Cancer stem cells, Gap junction channels

Citation

León-Fuentes IM, Salgado-Gil MG, Novoa MS, Retamal MA. Connexins in Cancer, the Possible Role of Connexin46 as a Cancer Stem Cell-Determining Protein. Biomolecules. 2023 Sep 27;13(10):1460. doi: 10.3390/biom13101460