Mucin-1 (MUC1) as a promising molecular target in anticancer therapy

Abstract

Mucin 1 (MUC1) has been recognized by the National Cancer Institute as one of the most promising molecular targets in cancer therapy. Its overexpression has been demonstrated in many epithelial tumors,especially in breast cancer, whichis associated with poor prognosis. Mucin 1 is an important barrier to the penetration of drugs and takes part in the inhibition of apoptosis in tumor cells. MUC1 triggers the activation of several pathways of intracellular signaling. MUC1 interactions with ICAM-1, E-selectin, galectin-3, EGFR, ERα estrogen receptor, p53 protein, heat shock proteins HSP70 and HSP90 have been demonstrated. The MUC1 membrane subunit contributes to the activation of the ERK1 and ERK2 kinases by the induction of the Ras-Raf-Mek-Erk pathway. In addition, the role of MUC1 in the activation of the WNT/β-catenin/TCF7L2 pathway and the induction of transcription of the cyclin D1 gene was confirmed. Numerous studies have shown that blockade of MUC1 by monoclonal antibodies or small molecule inhibitors may promote therapeutic effects and contribute to increased susceptibility of tumor cells to chemotherapeutic agents. The combined effect of the anti-MUC1 antibody with novel anticancer agents may have a better therapeutic effect than monotherapy. This article reviews the current knowledge about the role of MUC1 in the development and progression of cancer as well as potential novel strategies based on mucin 1 in antineoplastic therapy.