The functional role of peroxiredoxin 3 in reactive oxygen species, apoptosis, and chemoresistance of cancer cells

Purpose The mammalian peroxiredoxin (PRX) family contains six members that provide antioxidant defense in different cell types by removing reactive oxygen species (ROS) through conserved active cysteines. Different from other members, PRX3 is predominantly located in mitochondria, a major apoptosis mediator. The purpose of this review is to summarize the findings on PRX3 concerning its role in ROS removal, apoptosis, and chemoresistance of cancer cells. Methods The relevant literature from PubMed and Medline databases is reviewed in this article (1994-2014). Results Because of fast growth and relatively low supply of oxygen in cancer cells, ROS production from mitochondria is exaggerated to an extent that overwhelms cellular antioxidant defenses resulting in oxidative stress. As an active responder to oxidative stress, PRX3 is accordingly up-regulated in cancer cells to remove cellular ROS and inhibit apoptosis, which provides a favorable microenvironment for cell proliferation. Conclusion Since most of chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancers is through ROS increase and apoptotic induction, PRX3 might be involved in the chemotherapeutic resistance of cancers.