Roles of AEG-1 in CNS neurons and astrocytes during noncancerous processes

Since its initial identification, Astrocyte Elevated Gene-1 (AEG-1) has been recognized as a "star" gene detected in most of the analyzed cancers; AEG-1 can interact with signaling transduction molecules, such as PI3K/Akt and MAPK, to affect the function and viability of cells. Furthermore, its multiple other functions are also gradually being recognized. AEG-1 participates in several biological processes, including embryonic development, glutamate excitotoxicity, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Most of the noncancerous roles of the AEG-1 were identified in studies of the neurological disorders of the CNS. As an oncogene that promotes aberrant cellular processes within the CNS, AEG-1 may also represent an important therapeutic target for the treatment of neurological disease. However, the exact role of the AEG-1 in CNS under normal conditions is still unknown. This review will focus on the literature describing the role of this molecule in CNS neurons and astrocytes during noncancerous processes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.