The transcription factor FOXQ1 in cancer

Abstract

FOXQ1 is a member of the large forkhead box (FOX) family of transcription factors that is involved in all aspects of mammalian development, physiology, and pathobiology. FOXQ1 has emerged as a major regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and tumour metastasis in cancers, especially carcinomas of the digestive tract. Accordingly, FOXQ1 induction is recognised as an independent prognostic factor for worse overall survival in several types of cancer, including gastric and colorectal cancer. In this review article, I summarise new evidence on the role of FOXQ1 in cancer, with a focus on molecular mechanisms that control FOXQ1 levels and the regulation of FOXQ1 target genes. Unravelling the functions of FOXQ1 has the potential to facilitate the development of targeted treatments for metastatic cancers.