The dual role of fibulins in tumorigenesis

The human fibulin family consists of seven complex extracellular glycoproteins originally characterized as components of elastic fibers in connective tissue. However, beyond its structural role, fibulins are involved in complex biological processes such as cell adhesion, migration or proliferation. Indeed, they have proved to be essential elements in normal physiology, as shown by mouse models lacking these proteins, that evidence several developmental abnormalities and pathological features. Their relevance is also apparent in tumorigenesis, an aspect that has started to be intensely studied. Distinct fibulins are expressed in both tumor and stromal cells and are subjected to multiple expression regulations with either anti or pro-tumor effects. The mechanistic insights that underlie these observations are now commencing to emerge, portraying these proteins as very versatile and active constituents of connective tissue. The aim of this review is to highlight the most relevant connections between fibulins and cancer.

► Both pro-tumor and anti-tumor activities can be elicited by fibulins.
► ADAMTS-fibulin interactions could potentiate degradation of extracellular matrix components.
► Knowledge of pathways linking fibulins to tumor progression or suppression would help to design compounds for therapeutic use.