The role of lipocalin-2 in various cancers: a literature review

Abstract

Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), also known as neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin, has been identified as a crucial iron protein that impedes bacterial growth during physiological and inflammatory states. In recent times, the oncological impact of LCN2 has been extensively studied in various cancer types, including colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Different levels of LCN2 have been linked to increased cell proliferation, angiogenesis, cell invasion, and metastasis. Consequently, LCN2 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target against various cancer types. This review consolidates the most notable findings on the expression, biological functions, and regulation of LCN2, along with the proteins with which LCN2 interacts in cancer.