Dab2 regulates autophagy: New insights into mechanisms of chemo-resistance and metastasis

Investigators report preclinical findings suggesting that disabled 2 (Dab2) serves as a molecular switch that regulates whether a tumor cell undergoes autophagy or apoptosis. Maintaining Dab2 by inhibiting cathepsin B could prevent tumor cell survival by blocking autophagy and promoting cell death. These insights provide important information for maximizing the efficacy of existing chemotherapeutic agents.