An emerging role of PARK2 in cancer

J Mol Med (Berl). 2014 Jan;92(1):31-42. doi: 10.1007/s00109-013-1107-0. Epub 2013 Dec 3.

Abstract

PARK2 (PARKIN) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in multiple signaling pathways and cellular processes. Activity of PARK2 is tightly regulated through inter- and intra-molecular interactions. Dysfunction of PARK2 is associated with the progression of parkinsonism. Notably, frequent PARK2 inactivation has been identified in various human cancers. Park2-deficient mice are more susceptible to tumorigenesis, indicating its crucial role as a tumor suppressor. However, biological studies also show that PARK2 possesses both pro-survival and growth suppressive functions. Here, we summarize the genetic lesions of PARK2 in human cancers and discuss the current knowledge of PARK2 in cancer progression. We further highlight future efforts for the study of PARK2 in cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / genetics
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / metabolism
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Gene Silencing
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / chemistry
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / genetics*
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases
  • parkin protein