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RLIP76 and Cancer

Authors' Affiliations: ¹ Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas; ² Cancer Research Institute of Scott & White Hospital, Temple, Texas; and ³ Terapio, Inc., Austin, Texas

Requests for reprints: Arthur E. Frankel, Cancer Research Institute at Scott & White Hospital, 5701 South Airport Road, Temple, TX 76502. Phone: 254-724-0094; Fax: 254-724-2324; E-mail: afrankel{at}swmail.sw.org.

Abstract

RLIP76 is a multifunctional membrane protein that transports glutathione conjugates of electrophilic compounds and other xenobiotics including chemotherapy agents out of cells. The protein is overexpressed in lung carcinomas, ovarian carcinomas, and melanomas. The protein also binds Ral and participates in mitotic spindle function, clathrin-dependent endocytosis, and triggers GTPase-activating protein activity. It is found throughout the cell, in membrane, cytosol, and the nucleus, and is known to shift between these compartments in response to stress. Loss of RLIP76 by antibody or antisense therapy is associated with increased sensitivity to radiation and chemotherapy. Conversely, liposomally delivered RLIP may treat poisoning and wounds.