Gankyrin as a potential target for tumor therapy: evidence and perspectives

Gankyrin (also known as PSMD10 or p28GANK), engages in diverse biological processes, including cellular growth, proliferation and invasion. Several studies have demonstrated that Gankyrin is a candidate oncogene. In parallel, the dysregulation of Gankyrin has been observered in a variety of human cancer. Overexpression of Gankyrin is involved in tumor initiation and progression by regulating several signaling pathways that control cell-cycle process, cell growth, apoptosis, et al. On the contrary, downregulation of Gankyrin significantly inhibits cell growth, proliferation and metastasis. Therefore, Gankyrin appears to be a potential target for tumor therapy. Herein, this review summarizes the current knowledge in understanding the biological functions and oncogenic role of Gankyrin in human cancers from the perspective of clinical-pathological significances, aiming to provide guidance for the development of Gankyrin-targeted therapy.