NFATs show dual-characterized effect in tumorigenesis and cell proliferation.
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NFATs correlate with tumor invasion and migration.
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NFATs facilitate tumor angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
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NFATs are involved in drug resistance, including chemo- and targeted agents.
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NFATs exert important functions in the tumor microenvironment.
Abstract
Since nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) was first identified as a transcription factor in T cells, various NFAT isoforms have been discovered and investigated. Accumulating studies have suggested that NFATs are involved in many aspects of cancer, including carcinogenesis, cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, drug resistance and tumor microenvironment. Different NFAT isoforms have distinct functions in different cancers. The exact function of NFAT in cancer or the tumor microenvironment is context dependent. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of NFAT regulation and function in cancer development and treatment. NFATs have emerged as a potential target for cancer prevention and therapy.
