Potential of Fibulin2 as a therapeutic target against cancer and as a diagnostic marker (Review).

Abstract

Cancers are not merely composed of tumor cells; rather, they constitute a complex tumor microenvironment (TME) comprising diverse cell types and noncellular factors. Extracellular matrix (ECM) represents a critical component of the TME. Fibulin2 participates in ECM formation in various tumors, and its altered expression in multiple malignancies can affect tumor cell proliferation and invasiveness. Additionally, Fibulin2 has emerged as a potential biomarker in various cancer types and serves a pivotal role in tumor progression. Consequently, therapeutic strategies targeting Fibulin2 hold considerable promise. However, the research and development of Fibulin2‑targeted therapeutics has progressed at a relatively slow pace. Therefore, the roles and mechanisms of Fibulin2 in various malignancies, along with investigations into its utility as a biomarker, are comprehensively discussed in the present review. This may provide valuable guidance for the clinical translation and application of Fibulin2‑targeted therapies, and the utilization of Fibulin2 as a predictive biomarker.