The Role of Hedgehog Pathway in Female Cancers

BACKGROUND: The hedgehog pathway (HH) is one of the key regulators involved in many biological events. Malfunction of this pathway is associated with a variety of diseases including several types of cancers. METHODS: We collected data from public databases and conducted a comprehensive search linking the HH pathway with female cancers. In addition, we overviewed clinical trials of targeting HH pathway in female cancers. RESULTS: The activation of HH pathway and its role in female cancers, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and uterine leiomyosarcoma were summarized. Treatment options targeting SMO and GLI in HH pathway were reviewed and discussed. CONCLUSIONS: The hedgehog pathway was shown to be activated in several types of female cancers. Therefore, targeting HH pathway may be considered as a therapeutic option to be acknowledged in the treatment of female cancers.