Delta-like protein 1 (DLL1) (DLL1)

Delta-like protein 1 (DLL1) is a type I transmembrane protein that serves as a canonical ligand for Notch receptors, specifically Notch1, Notch2, and Notch3. It plays a fundamental role in cell-to-cell communication, regulating cell fate decisions during embryonic development and adult tissue maintenance, particularly in neurogenesis, hematopoiesis, and somitogenesis. In oncology, DLL1 is often overexpressed in various malignancies, including neuroblastoma and breast cancer, where it promotes tumor cell proliferation and survival through Notch pathway activation. Conversely, DLL1-mediated signaling is essential for proper T-cell development and can be leveraged to enhance anti-tumor immunity or promote vascular normalization. Therapeutic strategies under investigation include monoclonal antibodies like Dl1.72 to block oncogenic signaling, recombinant DLL1-Fc proteins to stimulate immune responses, and microRNA-based approaches to downregulate its expression.

Other names

Delta1DL1H-Delta-1Delta-like ligand 1Drosophila Delta homolog 1NEDBASDelta Like Canonical Notch Ligand 1

Notch pathway modulation (agonism or antagonism), mRNA silencing