Toll-7 promotes tumour growth and invasion in Drosophila

Cell Proliferation, 2022 · DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13188 · Published: January 2, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study uses Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) to understand the genetic mechanisms behind tumor progression, focusing on a protein called Toll-7. The researchers found that Toll-7 is a proto-oncogene, meaning it can promote tumor growth and invasion. Toll-7 activates specific signaling pathways (Egr-JNK and EGFR-Ras) that lead to cell proliferation and migration, contributing to tumor development.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Transgenic flies

Evidence Level

In vivo study using Drosophila tumour models

Key Findings

1
Loss of Toll-7 suppresses tumor growth and invasion in a Drosophila model of RasV12/lgl−/−-induced tumors.
2
Toll-7 is required for cell polarity disruption-induced invasive cell migration, indicating its role in tumor metastasis.
3
Toll-7 activates both Egr-JNK and EGFR-Ras signaling pathways, promoting cell proliferation and tissue overgrowth.

Research Summary

This study identifies Toll-7 as a proto-oncogene in Drosophila that promotes tumor growth and invasion. Toll-7 activates Egr-JNK and EGFR-Ras signaling pathways, leading to cell proliferation, tissue overgrowth, and invasive cell migration. The findings suggest that Toll-7 promotes Egr endocytosis and proper EGFR expression which are critical for tumorigenesis.

Practical Implications

Potential Therapeutic Target

Targeting Toll-7 or its downstream signaling pathways could offer new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.

Understanding TLR Function

The findings shed light on the pro-tumor function of mammalian Toll-like receptors (TLRs), suggesting a role for innate immunity-related factors in tumorigenesis.

Drug Development

These findings offer in-vivo evidence for the pro-tumour function of Toll family receptors

Study Limitations

1
The study is performed in Drosophila, and further research is needed to validate these findings in mammalian systems.
2
The specific mechanisms by which Toll-7 regulates EGFR expression and endocytosis require further investigation.
3
The role of other Toll family members in tumor progression remains largely unexplored.

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