Epidermal growth factor-like domain-containing protein 7 (Egfl7) as a new potential target for therapy in gynecologic oncology

• Published in: Current Gynecologic Oncology 2016, Vol.14 (3), p.162-167
• Main Authors: Król, Karolina, Sznurkowski, Jacek Jan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Blood vessels; Breast cancer; Cancer; Epidermal growth factor; Gynecological cancer; Proteins
• ISSN: 2081-1632; 2451-0750; 2081-1632
• DOI: 10.15557/CGO.2016.0019

Epidermal growth factor-like domain-containing protein 7 (Egfl7) is a secretive gene-encoded protein expressed in endothelial cells of blood vessels, where it plays an essential role in regulating angiogenesis both in physiologic conditions as well as pathologic processes. Egfl7 has also been confirmed to be present in the cells of the central nervous system and several malignant tumors. In vitro studies have shown Egfl7 expression in breast and lung cancer in mice to downregulate endothelial expression of intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecules (VCAM-1), thus preventing lymphocytes from penetrating blood vessels and migrating to tumor nests. It has been suggested that cancer-associated Egfl7 may promote the escape of cancer from the immune system’s control by suppressing activation of endothelial cells and inhibiting diapedesis (leukocyte extravasation). Egfl7 expression in gynecologic cancers has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study is to present and discuss the current state of knowledge as regards this biomarker’s role in oncology, with particular emphasis on its therapeutic potential. Future research into Egfl7 expression in gynecologic cancers may facilitate development of new anti-angiogenic and/or biological therapies.