Cell adhesion molecule

Receptor

Glycosylation

MUC1

Biology

Glycoprotein

Cancer

Selectin

Transmembrane protein

Mucin

Chemistry

Metastasis

Angiogenesis

Cell biology

Cancer research

Genetics

Biochemistry

Cancer cell

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

The transmembrane glycoprotein mucin 1 (MUC1) is a mucin family member that has different functions in normal and cancer cells. Owing to its structural and biochemical properties, MUC1 can act as a lubricant, moisturizer, and physical barrier in normal cells. However, in cancer cells, MUC1 often undergoes aberrant glycosylation and overexpression. It is involved in cancer invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, and apoptosis by virtue of its participation in intracellular signaling processes and the regulation of related biomolecules. This review introduces the biological structure and different roles of MUC1 in normal and cancer cells and the regulatory mechanisms governing these roles. It also evaluates current research progress and the clinical applications of MUC1 in cancer therapy based on its characteristics.

MUC1: Structure, Function, and Clinic Application in Epithelial Cancers