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• Valle, A
• Oliver, J
• Roca, P
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• Oliver, J
• Roca, P
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• Valle, A
• Oliver, J
• Roca, P

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Cancers 2010, 2(2), 567-591; doi:10.3390/cancers2020567

Review

Role of Uncoupling Proteins in Cancer

Adamo Valle, Jordi Oliver and Pilar Roca*

Grupo Multidisciplinar de Oncología Traslacional, Institut Universitari d\'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de les Illes Balears/Cra. Valldemossa km 7.5, E-07122, Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain

* Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 4 March 2010; in revised form: 31 March 2010 / Accepted: 12 April 2010 / Published: 16 April 2010

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress and Cancer)

Download PDF Full-Text [856 KB, uploaded 16 April 2010 10:34 CEST]

Abstract: Uncoupling proteins (UCPs) are a family of inner mitochondrial membrane proteins whose function is to allow the re-entry of protons to the mitochondrial matrix, by dissipating the proton gradient and, subsequently, decreasing membrane potential and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Due to their pivotal role in the intersection between energy efficiency and oxidative stress, UCPs are being investigated for a potential role in cancer. In this review we compile the latest evidence showing a link between uncoupling and the carcinogenic process, paying special attention to their involvement in cancer initiation, progression and drug chemoresistance.

Keywords: uncoupling proteins; cancer; proton leak; mitochondria; chemoresistance; carcinogenesis; oxidative stress

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