Molecular characteristics of amyloid precursor protein (App) and its effects in cancer

Abstract

Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a type 1 transmembrane glycoprotein, and its homo-logs amyloid precursor-like protein 1 (APLP1) and amyloid precursor-like protein 2 (APLP2) are highly conserved in mammals. APP and APLP are known to be intimately involved in the patho-genesis and progression of Alzheimer’s disease and to play important roles in neuronal homeostasis and development and neural transmission. APP and APLP are also expressed in non-neuronal tissues and are overexpressed in cancer cells. Furthermore, research indicates they are involved in several cancers. In this review, we examine the biological characteristics of APP-related family mem-bers and their roles in cancer.