Glutathione S-transferase π: a potential role in antitumor therapy

Abstract

Shu-Chen Dong,1,* Huan-Huan Sha,1,* Xiao-Yue Xu,1 Tian-Mu Hu,2 Rui Lou,1 Huizi Li,1 Jian-Zhong Wu,1 Chen Dan,1 Jifeng Feng1 1Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research and Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Nanjing 210009, China; 2Department of Biological Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA *These authors contributed equally to this work Abstract: Glutathione S-transferase π (GSTπ) is a Phase II metabolic enzyme that is an important facilitator of cellular detoxification. Traditional dogma asserts that GSTπ functions to catalyze glutathione (GSH)-substrate conjunction to preserve the macromolecule upon exposure to oxidative stress, thus defending cells against various toxic compounds. Over the past 20 years, abnormal GSTπ expression has been linked to the occurrence of tumor resistance to chemotherapy drugs, demonstrating that this enzyme possesses functions beyond metabolism. This revelation reveals exciting possibilities in the realm of drug discovery, as GSTπ inhibitors and its prodrugs offer a feasible strategy in designing anticancer drugs with the primary purpose of reversing tumor resistance. In connection with the authors’ current research, we provide a review on the biological function of GSTπ and current developments in GSTπ-targeting drugs, as well as the prospects of future strategies. Keywords: tumor resistance, glutathione S-transferase pi, drug treatment

Keywords

• Tumor resistance
• Glutathione S-transferase pi
• drug treatment