Cell-cell fusion as a potential target in cancer therapy

Abstract

In the fight against cancer, new and more specific targets are needed. Here we offer an example of a potential target that has not been widely studied, namely, the syncytin protein. Syncytin is expressed mainly in the human placenta and is implicated in placental syncytiotrophoblast cell fusion. Not much is known about the role of syncytin in cancer, but the existing data call for more intense research. Its retroviral origin and particular tissue distribution make syncytin an interesting potential target in cancer therapy.