Role of oxysterol-binding protein-related proteins in malignant human tumours.

Abstract

The oxysterol-binding protein-related protein (ORP) family is a group of proteins that mediate oxysterol metabolism and bioactivity in cells. ORPs constitute a large family of lipid transfer proteins. Much of the current evidence indicates that certain members of the family of oxysterol-binding proteins (OSBPs) can lead to cancer. Many studies have revealed the putative roles of OSBPs in various cancer types. However, the exact effects and mechanisms of action of members of the OSBP/ORP family in cancer initiation and progression are currently unclear. This review focuses on ORP family members that can accelerate human tumour cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The mechanisms and functions of various ORPs are introduced in detail. We also attempt to identify the roles of these proteins in malignant tumours with the ultimate aim of determining the exact role of the OSBP/ORP family in human tumour cells.