MUC1 and tumor：signaling pathways and clinical research

Abstract:

MUC1 is a heterodimeric transmembrane glycoprotein formed by two subunits（N terminal and C terminal）. MUC1 is aber－rantly overexpressed in the epithelium originated tumor and is closely related to tumor development. MUC1-N interacts with ICAM-1，E-selectin and Galectin-3 and mediates signal transduction through MUC1-C；MUC1-C interacts with ErbB and other receptor tyro－sine kinases and engages in the PI3K→AKT，MAP，NF-κB，Wnt，STAT，P53 and Erα pathways，resulting in tumor proliferation，inva－sion and migration and chemoresistance. We review the role of MUC1-N and MUC1-C in interacting with other molecules and acti－vating signaling pathways. Finally，we review the clinical trials of the therapies of MUC1-N monoclonal antibodies，MUC1-C small molecule peptides and MUC1 vaccines.