Copine-7 (CPNE7)

Copine-7 (CPNE7) is a member of the copine family of calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins characterized by two N-terminal C2 domains and a von Willebrand factor A domain[1][2][3]. It is implicated in membrane trafficking and cellular signal transduction and is secreted by specific cell types such as preameloblasts, where it can regulate neighboring cells by inducing differentiation (e.g., odontoblast differentiation through upregulation of dentin sialophosphoprotein, modulating autophagy, and affecting cytoskeletal and signaling proteins)[1][5]. CPNE7 plays a notable role in tissue development and repair, especially in dental tissues, and participates in the regulation of primary cilia formation (ciliogenesis) via receptor-mediated internalization involving nucleolin[5]. In cancer biology, CPNE7 is upregulated in several malignancies, such as colorectal cancer and oral squamous cell carcinoma, where it appears to influence epithelial–mesenchymal transition, cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and overall tumor progression, potentially acting via calcium signaling and the NF-κB pathway[4][6]. Studies suggest CPNE7 may serve as a biomarker for colorectal cancer progression, but there are no known therapeutic drugs targeting CPNE7 or established safety concerns as of yet[4].

Other names

Copine 7Copine VIIcopine-7copine VIICPNE7