The Significance of Neuropilins in Gastrointestinal Cancers.

Abstract

Cancers represent a significant global health concern, being among the most prevalent malignancies and contributing substantially to morbidity and mortality rates. Notably, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and liver cancers are the most frequently diagnosed among these malignancies. The pathogenesis of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers is multifactorial, encompassing a complex interplay of genetic predispositions, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices. Despite advances in diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies, existing treatment modalities, particularly in the advanced stages of these cancers, remain ineffective. Recent research efforts have increasingly focused on the identification and characterization of novel biomarkers that could enhance both the detection and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. One particularly promising area of investigation involves neuropilins (NRPs). NRPs are involved in essential biological processes such as angiogenesis, cellular migration, and tumor cell-microenvironment interactions, all of which promote tumor progression and contribute to the development of treatment resistance. Overexpression of neuropilins has been linked to poor prognosis in patients, implying that they could be useful in diagnosis and serve as targets for molecular treatment. Recent research also suggests that inhibiting neuropilin activity may slow tumor growth and inhibit angiogenic processes, opening up new possibilities for targeted therapeutic techniques in the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies.