EGLN1 (PHD2) role in tumor microenvironment: insights for therapeutic targeting.
Giulio Verna, Valentina Fantini, Alessandra Grieco, Alessia Ciarrocchi, Valentina Sancisi
Abstract
Open AccessThe tumor microenvironment (TME) is often hypoxic. EGLN1, which encodes the oxygen sensor PHD2, plays a crucial role not only in the survival of cancer cells but also in regulating other cell types that reside in the TME. In this Review, we explore the role of this protein in some of the key components of the TME, focusing on the functions of EGLN1/PHD2 in endothelial, stromal and immune cells. So far, the activity of EGLN1/PHD2 has been characterized in different cell types, albeit with controversial outcomes in different cancer settings. This Review aims to discuss the role of EGLN1/PHD2 in the TME and the strategies targeting this protein that might be used to hit tumors.