MSLN
Mesothelin (MSLN) is a glycophosphatidylinositol-anchored cell surface glycoprotein generated, together with the shed fragment megakaryocyte potentiating factor, by proteolytic cleavage of a common precursor. In healthy adults its expression is limited to mesothelial cells lining the pleura, pericardium, and peritoneum, whereas mesothelioma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, ovarian cancer, and lung adenocarcinoma show strong overexpression. Proposed functions include cell adhesion and interaction with CA125/MUC16 on tumor cells. This tumor selectivity has driven intensive development of mesothelin-directed therapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates such as anetumab ravtansine, bispecific T cell engagers, and CAR-T programs.
