Tfcp2l1 as a central integrator of hypoxia, dedifferentiation, and tumor progression

The gene Tfcp2l1 has emerged as a central player linking key processes in cancer biology: hypoxia, immortalization, dedifferentiation, and tumor progression. Originally identified for its role in maintaining pluripotency in embryonic stem cells, Tfcp2l1 has been found to reappear in various cancers,...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Clemente-González, Cynthia, Carnero, Amancio
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)
Repositorio:DIGITAL.CSIC. Repositorio Institucional del CSIC
OAI Identifier:oai:digital.csic.es:10261/402565
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10261/402565
https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/105013199907
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:TFCP2L1
Senescence
Hypoxia
Dedifferentiation
Tumorigenesis
Cancer
Descripción
Sumario:The gene Tfcp2l1 has emerged as a central player linking key processes in cancer biology: hypoxia, immortalization, dedifferentiation, and tumor progression. Originally identified for its role in maintaining pluripotency in embryonic stem cells, Tfcp2l1 has been found to reappear in various cancers, especially under conditions of low oxygen (hypoxia). Hypoxia, a common feature of solid tumors, triggers the reactivation of developmental genes like Tfcp2l1, enabling cancer cells to dedifferentiate and adopt stem cell-like properties. This dedifferentiation facilitates the immortalization of cells—allowing them to bypass senescence and continue proliferating. Tfcp2l1 contributes to this process by regulating transcriptional networks that suppress differentiation and support self-renewal. Its expression correlates with poor prognosis in several cancers, highlighting its potential role in tumor aggressiveness and resistance to therapy. By acting at the intersection of cellular plasticity, stress adaptation, and oncogenic transformation, Tfcp2l1 may serve as a molecular bridge linking early developmental programs with malignant behaviors. Understanding how Tfcp2l1 integrates signals from hypoxic stress and drives dedifferentiation could uncover new therapeutic targets aimed at reversing or halting tumor progression.