EMMPRIN Plays a Vital Role in Cancer Metastasis by Regulating MMPs and VEGF

The interplay between cancer cells and fibroblasts, facilitated by the extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), plays a pivotal role in the invasion of cancer cells. The interaction between CD73 on fibroblasts and EMMPRIN on cancer cells is critical for the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). EMMPRIN is an essential protein that activates the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), which subsequently governs signaling pathways related to cancer cell invasion, migration, angiogenesis, and metastasis, thereby contributing to the advancement of various cancers. EMMPRIN affects MMP production through direct cell-to-cell interactions and its influence on fibroblasts due to their close contact. It is proposed that disrupting the EMMPRIN-CD73 interaction and utilizing an antagonist for both EMMPRIN and VEGFR-2 may significantly impede cancer metastasis. This review aims to investigate how EMMPRIN regulates MMPs and VEGF in the context of cancer metastasis.