"HSP70 and Cancer"

Abstract

Hsp70, is a protein member of the “heat shock proteins” family. Its physiological role,Hsp70, is a protein member of the “heat shock proteins” family. Its physiological role,(as a molecule chaperone), is to contribute to the correct protein folding, in the celland to avoid their congregation, assisting in this way, in cell homeostasis. In stressconditions, it helps cell to survive after exposure in a stress conditions or in lethalinjuries. Its physiological role, is achieved, when in certain amounts, during cellcycle. Upregulation of Hsp70, by specific factors, inhibits apoptosis signalingpathways, leading in cell survival. In cancer, upregulation of Hsp70, thus enhancingsurvival, leads to tumorigenesis, to deregulation of cellular proliferation, to increasedmobility of cancer cells (metastasis) and to neovasculogenesis. Elevated amounts,confer to tumor cells, resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs.

Downregulation of the Hsp70, (downregulation of Hsp90 too), by inhibition or knockdown, can reduce or even eliminate the tumor. Therefore, Hsp70, can be apossible therapeutic target in the treatment of cancer. Inhibition of Hsp70, can bepossible, by inhibition the activity of its transcription factor, in the gene promoter,using antibodies against Hsp70, using specific inhibitors, or using extracellular Hsp70that acts as immunogenic.

STEFOY Stathoyla