Multiple Roles of LOXL2 in the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Potential for Therapeutic Targeting

Overview

Journal Int J Mol Sci

Publisher MDPI

Specialties Biochemistry
Chemistry
Molecular Biology

Date 2023 Jul 29

PMID 37511503

Authors

Jelena Radic

Bojana Kozik

Ivan Nikolic

Ivana Kolarov-Bjelobrk

Tijana Vasiljevic

Bojana Vranjkovic

Sanja Despotovic

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

LOXL2, a copper-dependent amine oxidase, has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Increased LOXL2 expression in HCC has been linked with an aggressive phenotype and represents a poor prognostic factor. Here, we focus on the mechanisms through which LOXL2 orchestrates multiple oncogenic functions in HCC development. We performed a review of the current knowledge on the roles LOXL2 performs in the modulation of the HCC tumor microenvironment, formation of premetastatic niches, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. We also highlighted the complex interplay between LOXL2 and hypoxia, angiogenesis, and vasculogenic mimicry in HCC. At the end of the review, we summarize the current LOXL2 inhibitors and discuss their potential in HCC precision treatment.

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