Role of O-GlcNAcylation in Breast Cancer Biology

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. It has been extensively researched over the past decades, but the underlying mechanisms of its growth, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis require further investigation. Dysregulation of O-GlcNAcylation which is one of the most abundant post-translational modifications, impacts on the malignant features of breast cancer. O-GlcNAcylation is broadly recognized as a nutrient sensor and participates in cells’ survival and death. Through its involvement in protein synthesis and energy metabolism, especially glucose metabolism, O-GlcNAcylation enables adaptation to a hostile environment. It supports the migration and invasion of cancer cells and may be crucial for breast cancer metastasis. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge about O-GlcNAcylation in breast cancer: the origins of its dysregulation, its effect on the different aspects of breast cancer biology, and the potential utility in diagnostics and therapy.