NDRG3 and NDRG4, two novel tumor-related genes

The N-myc downstream-regulated genes, NDRG3 and NDRG4, are suggested to play important roles in biological processes and pathogenesis. Expression of NDRG3 and NDRG4 has been shown to be reduced or absent in numerous cancer cell lines and tumor types, suggesting that they may exert function as a tumor suppressor gene. In this review, we will summarize the current research on NDRG3 and NDRG4, including the molecular structure, cellular and tissue distribution, biological function, and function in cancer. We tried to show their significance in studying disease and their therapeutic potential.