Insights into the Role of Gremlin-1, a Bone Morphogenic Protein Antagonist, in Cancer Initiation and Progression

The bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist Gremlin-1 is a biologically significant regulator known for its crucial role in tissue differentiation and embryonic development. Nevertheless, it has been reported that Gremlin-1 can exhibit its function through BMP dependent and independent pathways. Gremlin-1 has also been reported to be involved in organ fibrosis, which has been correlated to the development of other diseases, such as renal inflammation and diabetic nephropathy. Based on growing evidence, Gremlin-1 has recently been implicated in the initiation and progression of different types of cancers. Further, it contributes to the stemness state of cancer cells. Herein, we explore the recent findings on the role of Gremlin-1 in various cancer types, including breast, cervical, colorectal, and gastric cancers, as well as glioblastomas. Additionally, we highlighted the impact of Gremlin-1 on cellular processes and signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Therefore, it was suggested that Gremlin-1 might be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cancers.

Automated summary

The BMP antagonist Gremlin-1 plays a crucial role in tissue differentiation and embryonic development. It can exert its function through both BMP dependent and independent pathways. Gremlin-1 is also involved in organ fibrosis and has recently been implicated in the initiation and progression of various types of cancers. Additionally, it contributes to the stemness state of cancer cells. This review explores the role of Gremlin-1 in breast, cervical, colorectal, and gastric cancers, as well as glioblastomas, and highlights its impact on cellular processes and signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Gremlin-1 is suggested to be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cancer.