Loss of Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1) Enhances Angiogenic Signaling in Ovarian Cancer Cells.

ABSTRACT: Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), encoded by the TJP1 gene, is a crucial scaffolding protein within tight junctions that maintains epithelial and endothelial barrier integrity. In addition to its structural role, ZO-1 participates in signal transduction pathways that influence various cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Increasing evidence suggests that tight junction proteins, including ZO-1, play important regulatory roles in tumor progression, particularly by modulating metastasis, cell polarity, and vascular remodeling. Ovarian cancer, the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, is characterized by rapid growth, peritoneal dissemination, and a strong reliance on tumor angiogenesis. However, the specific role of ZO-1 in regulating angiogenesis within ovarian c

SUBMITTER: Choi S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12429131 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature