Expression and function of peroxiredoxins in gynecological malignancies.

A large family of peroxiredoxin proteins plays essential roles in the regulation of multiple redox-sensitive cellular activities related to cell signaling, cell proliferation and apoptosis. The involvement of these proteins in protecting cells from oxidative damage, induced by reactive oxygen species, points to their potential role in human cancers. According to some studies, the peroxiredoxin proteins in gynecological malignancies, promote tumors development and progression, whereas others indicate that peroxiredoxin proteins function as onco-suppressors in these cancers. Here, we review the utilization of peroxiredoxin proteins as novel biomarkers for screening and early diagnosis of gynecological malignancies, and as the specific therapy targets and prognostic factors as well.