Targeting synuclein-gamma to counteract drug resistance in cancer

Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2008 Jan;12(1):59-68. doi: 10.1517/14728222.12.1.59.

Abstract

Background: Expression of synuclein-gamma (SNCG) protein is elevated in the advanced stages of many types of cancers, including ovarian, lung, liver, esophagus, colon, prostate and, in particular, breast. In breast carcinoma, SNCG is causatively linked to stimulated proliferation, metastasis and drug resistance.

Objective: To establish SNCG as a potential therapeutic target and to discuss clinical use of SNCG inhibiting peptide.

Methods: This review focuses on the plausible mechanisms of SNCG activity, SNCG mediated drug resistance and its inhibition.

Results/conclusion: Evidence based research shows that the aberrant expression of SNCG has a strong correlation with breast cancer progression and poor clinical outcome. A peptide based inhibitor counters activity of SNCG, which may be developed as an adjuvant therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / drug effects
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Peptides / administration & dosage
  • Peptides / pharmacology
  • Peptides / therapeutic use
  • gamma-Synuclein / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • gamma-Synuclein / biosynthesis
  • gamma-Synuclein / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Peptides
  • gamma-Synuclein