Abstract
Accumulated evidence has demonstrated that WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein (WISP) genes, which belong to members of the CCN growth factor family, play a pivotal role in tumorigenesis and progression of a broad spectrum of human cancers. Mounting studies have identified that WISP proteins (WISP1-3) exert different biological functions in various human malignancies. Emerging evidence indicates that WISP proteins are critically involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis in cancers. Because the understanding of a direct function of WISP proteins in cancer development and progression has begun to emerge, in this review article, we describe the physiological function of WISP proteins in a variety of human cancers. Moreover, we highlight the current understanding of how the WISP protein is involved in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Furthermore, we discuss that targeting WISP proteins could be a promising strategy for the treatment of human cancers. Hence, the regulation of WISP proteins could improve treatments for cancer patients.
Highlights
The connective tissue growth factor/cysteine-rich 61/ nephroblastoma overexpressed (CNN) growth factor family includes cysteine-rich 61/CCN1 (CYR61), connective tissue growth factor/CCN2 (CTGF), nephroblastoma overexpressed/CCN3 (NOV), and WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein (WISP) genes [1]
The RNA levels of WISP1 and WISP3 have been shown to be overexpressed in human colon tumors compared with normal mucoma, whereas WISP2 RNA expression has been shown to be reduced in colon tumors [2]
In summary, WISP proteins are critically involved in various cellular progresses, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis in cancer cells
Summary
The connective tissue growth factor/cysteine-rich 61/ nephroblastoma overexpressed (CNN) growth factor family includes cysteine-rich 61/CCN1 (CYR61), connective tissue growth factor/CCN2 (CTGF), nephroblastoma overexpressed/CCN3 (NOV), and WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein (WISP) genes [1]. Consistent with this report, the WISP2 gene exhibited estrogen- and progesterone-inducible expression and regulation of tumor cell proliferation in breast cancer cells [13]. WISP2 expression has been induced by protein kinase A (PKA) activators in human breast cancer cells [14].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
