New Aspects of Mitochondrial Uncoupling Proteins (UCPs) and Their Roles in Tumorigenesis
2011

Mitochondrial Uncoupling Proteins and Their Role in Cancer

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Delira Robbins, Yunfeng Zhao

Primary Institution: LSU Health Sciences Center

Hypothesis

How do uncoupling proteins (UCPs) contribute to tumorigenesis and cancer development?

Conclusion

Dysregulation of UCPs is involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer, where they may promote tumor growth and chemoresistance.

Supporting Evidence

  • UCP2 is upregulated in aggressive human cancers, providing a growth advantage.
  • UCP2 may interact with oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, influencing cancer development.
  • Elevated UCP2 levels are associated with chemoresistance in cancer cells.

Takeaway

Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins help cells use energy differently, which can be good for some diseases but bad for cancer because they might help tumors grow.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/ijms12085285

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