EpCAM, a novel oncogenic receptor and its target therapy

Abstract

EpCAM is a cell adhesion molecule. Its structure, its expression and the oncogenic potential, and its signaling network and target therapy were in concise reviewed. EpCAM is expressed in a broad variety of human carcinomas to varying degrees. The identification of EpCAM describing both a protective and a promoting role in carcinogenesis appears to be dependent on the cancer type. In recent advances, in addition to PI3K/akt and Raf/MAPK pathway involving in cell survival, antiapoptosis and proliferation, and malignant initiation and progression three distinct pathway are illustrated: EpCAM/E-cadherin-catenin-actin cytoskeleton,EpCAM/ wint-catenin signaling,and its major EpCAM/nuclear signaling presented by Munz M in 2004. Moreover, more accumulated data are needed in detail mechanism.The data may provide its cancer biology and clinical targeting therapy benefits. Indeed, the use of the EpCAM-specific monoclonal antibody has been successful in increasing disease-free survival in colon and breast cancer patients with minimal residual disease.