Zhang SZ, Lobo A, Li PF, Zhang YF. Sialylated glycoproteins and sialyltransferases in digestive cancers: Mechanisms, diagnostic biomarkers, and therapeutic targets.
Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024;
197:104330. [PMID:
38556071 DOI:
10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104330]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Sialic acid (SA), as the ultimate epitope of polysaccharides, can act as a cap at the end of polysaccharide chains to prevent their overextension. Sialylation is the enzymatic process of transferring SA residues onto polysaccharides and is catalyzed by a group of enzymes known as sialyltransferases (SiaTs). It is noteworthy that the sialylation level of glycoproteins is significantly altered when digestive cancer occurs. And this alteration exhibits a close correlation with the progression of these cancers. In this review, from the perspective of altered SiaTs expression levels and changed glycoprotein sialylation patterns, we summarize the pathogenesis of gastric cancer (GC), colorectal cancer (CRC), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Furthermore, we propose potential early diagnostic biomarkers and prognostic indicators for different digestive cancers. Finally, we summarize the therapeutic value of sialylation in digestive system cancers.
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