Epithelial stromal interaction protein 1 (EPSTI1)

EPSTI1 is a nucleo-cytoplasmic protein and an interferon-response gene that mediates epithelial-stromal interactions in various tissues. It is upregulated in multiple cancers and inflammatory conditions, where it promotes cell invasion, metastasis, immune activation, and inflammation. EPSTI1 regulates key pathways such as IFN-γ-JAK-STAT, affects EMT, and interacts with the ubiquitin-proteasome system to mediate degradation of activated STAT1. It is predominantly expressed in immune cells (particularly macrophages and dendritic cells), and its level correlates with immune infiltration, tumor aggressiveness, and patient prognosis. Studies show that EPSTI1 can function both as an oncogene and as a tumor suppressor, depending on tissue context, and is linked to several immune and cancer-related biological processes.

Other names

BRESI1MGC29634epithelial-stromal interaction 1epithelial stromal interaction 1 (breast)

For drugs that could target EPSTI1, likely mechanisms would be: Modulation of immune activity (e.g., anti-inflammatory or immunotherapy); Inhibition of EMT and metastatic progression; Regulation of interferon and STAT1 signaling pathways. EPSTI1 is an emerging biological target, with no approved drugs specifically targeting it as of now. However, its involvement in the IFN-γ-JAK-STAT pathway suggests potential targeting by pathway inhibitors.