Is caveolin-1 a viable therapeutic target to reduce cancer metastasis?

Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2006 Oct;10(5):709-21. doi: 10.1517/14728222.10.5.709.

Abstract

Caveolin-1 is the major structural protein in caveolae; small Omega-shaped invaginations within the plasma membrane. Caveolae are involved in signal transduction, wherein caveolin-1 acts as a scaffold to organise multiple molecular complexes regulating a variety of cellular events. Caveolin-1 has both tumour suppressor and oncogenic activities. However, recent evidence suggests a role for caveolin-1 in promoting cancer cell migration and metastasis with both loss and overexpression of caveolin-1 being described as a marker for progression in a variety of tumour types. Further studies are beginning to determine the molecular mechanisms by which caveolin-1 acts in promoting a metastatic phenotype. Targeting caveolin-1 expression may present a novel means of preventing metastasis. The purpose of this review is twofold: firstly, to survey the current knowledge of the contribution of caveolin-1 in promoting a metastasis, and secondly, to explore the viability of targeting caveolin-1 with novel therapeutics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Caveolin 1 / metabolism*
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / drug therapy
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / prevention & control*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Caveolin 1