RhoGDI2 as a therapeutic target in cancer

Importance of the field. Rho GDP dissociation inhibitor 2 (RhoGDI2) has been identified as a regulator of Rho GTPases that play important roles in the development of numerous aspects of the malignant phenotype, including cell cycle progression, resistance to apoptotic stimuli, neovascularization, tumor cell motility, invasiveness, and metastasis. Although RhoGDI2 has been known to be expressed only in hematopoietic tissues, recent studies suggest that this protein is also aberrantly expressed in several human cancers and contributes to aggressive phenotypes, such as invasion and metastasis. Hence, RhoGDI2 appears to be a target of interest for therapeutic manipulation. Areas covered in this review: Here, we summarize the role of RhoGDI2 in human cancers, specifically metastasis-related processes, and discuss its potential as a therapeutic target. What the reader will gain: RhoGDI2 modulates the invasiveness and metastatic ability of cancer cells through regulation of Rac1 activity. Take home message: RhoGDI2 may be a useful marker for tumor progression in human cancers, and interruption of the RhoGDI2-mediated cancer cell invasion and metastasis by an interfacial inhibitor may be a powerful therapeutic approach to cancer.