"HSP70 as toxicity biomarker"

Abstract

Heat shock proteins exhibit remarkable changes in their expression levels under a variety of toxic conditions. A research period extended to five decades has revealed molecular characterization, gene regulation, expression patterns, high similarity across groups, and a wide range of functional capabilities. Their functions include protection and tolerance against cytotoxic states through their molecular escort activity, maintaining cytoskeletal stability and aiding cellular signaling. However, their role as biological indicators for monitoring the environmental risk assessment is controversial due to some conflicting, valid and inappropriate reports. Current knowledge about the interpretation of HSP expression levels was discussed in this review. The application of heat shock proteins as biomarkers of toxicity is so far unreliable due to the synergistic effects of toxic and other environmental factors. The adoption of heat shock proteins as a "suit of biological markers in a set of organisms" requires further investigation.

GEORGIOU Stefanos