The Role of LGR4 (GPR48) in Normal and Cancer Processes

Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Apr 29;22(9):4690. doi: 10.3390/ijms22094690.

Abstract

Leucine-rich repeats containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) is a receptor that belongs to the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors that can be activated by R-spondins (RSPOs), Norrin, circLGR4, and the ligand of the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B (RANKL) ligands to regulate signaling pathways in normal and pathological processes. LGR4 is widely expressed in different tissues where it has multiple functions such as tissue development and maintenance. LGR4 mainly acts through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to regulate proliferation, survival, and differentiation. In cancer, LGR4 participates in tumor progression, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, recent evidence reveals that LGR4 is essential for the regulation of the cancer stem cell population by controlling self-renewal and regulating stem cell properties. This review summarizes the function of LGR4 and its ligands in normal and malignant processes.

Keywords: CSCs; GPR48; LGR4; cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carcinogenesis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Male
  • Mice
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • Models, Biological
  • Neoplasms / etiology
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / pathology
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / chemistry
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / genetics
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Tissue Distribution
  • Wnt Signaling Pathway

Substances

  • LGR4 protein, human
  • LGR4 protein, mouse
  • Ligands
  • MicroRNAs
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled