Proteolytic Processing of CD44 and Its Implications in Cancer

Figure 2

CD44 and interaction with soluble and/or cell membrane ligands. (a) The interaction between CD44 and MMPs directs the latter to the cell front of migrating cells, the so-called invadopodia, simplifying the degradation of substrates present in the extracellular matrix. (b) CD44 interacts and forms complexes with proteins expressed on the cell surface such as the enzyme Erb-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase, epidermal growth factor receptor, or ABC transporter all of which stimulate signaling pathways that promote survival, proliferation, or chemoresistance.

(a)

(b)