Plexin domain-containing protein 1 (PLXDC1)

Plexin domain-containing protein 1 (PLXDC1) is a transmembrane, cell-surface receptor identified as a tumor endothelial marker highly expressed in various tumor vasculature, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, and glioblastoma. PLXDC1 is involved in angiogenesis and forms homooligomers that dissociate upon binding PEDF, leading to downstream signaling, neurotrophic support, inhibition of tumor cell growth, and antiangiogenic functions[1][2][5]. Elevated PLXDC1 promotes tumor cell migration, invasion, and immune evasion by regulating the tumor microenvironment, making it a candidate as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in oncology[3][4]. The protein is composed of distinct extracellular, transmembrane, and intracellular domains, with several known variants, including secreted and intracellular forms[3]. Despite its clear role in cancer biology, no clinically approved drugs directly target PLXDC1, though it remains under investigation for potential anti-cancer and antiangiogenic therapies[1][5].

Other names

Tumor endothelial marker 7 (TEM7)Tumor endothelial marker 3 (TEM3)plexin domain-containing protein 12410003I07Riktumor endothelial marker 7 precursor

Inhibition of PLXDC1 by siRNA or antagonists leads to reduced tumor growth, decreased microvessel density, induction of apoptosis in tumor endothelial cells (anti-angiogenic effect), and modulation of PEDF-mediated anti-angiogenic and neurotrophic signaling.