CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing protein 3 (CMTM3)

CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing protein 3 (CMTM3) is a member of the chemokine-like factor (CKLF)-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing family, mainly characterized as a transmembrane protein with structural features resembling both chemokines and the transmembrane 4 superfamily. CMTM3 is broadly expressed in various tissues, with particularly high expression in testis and immune cells. Functionally, it is implicated in the regulation of immune responses, suppression of tumor progression, modulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis. Its expression is frequently reduced or lost in several cancers—often through epigenetic silencing—suggesting a tumor suppressor role. Mechanistically, it can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and invasiveness by suppressing the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3, thereby dampening pro-oncogenic signaling[1][4][2]. CMTM3’s regulation, functions, and expression patterns are of increasing interest as they may serve as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in oncology and immunology, though no direct targeting drugs to date are known[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

CMTM3CKLFSF3BNAS2Chemokine-like factor superfamily member 3FLJ31762CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain containing 3Chemokine-like factor superfamily 3

Modulation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway (suppresses pathway activation which can attenuate tumor cell proliferation and migration); Regulation of EMT (epithelial–mesenchymal transition) by impacting cell adhesion and motility proteins