Adora2a, encoding the adenosine A2a receptor, is a G protein-coupled receptor. It plays significant roles in various biological processes. It is involved in pathways such as the ERK/MYC/PYCR cascade related to proline metabolism, and the PI3K/AKT pathway. It has implications for cell lineage plasticity, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and is also related to the regulation of inflammation and drug-related side-effects [1,2].

In genetically engineered mouse models, ablation of Adora2a inhibits the development and progression of neuroendocrine prostate and lung cancers, and prevents the adenocarcinoma-to-neuroendocrine phenotypic transition [1]. In addition, knockdown of Adora2a in colorectal carcinoma cell lines SW620 and HCT116 inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while promoting apoptosis, indicating its role in CRC progression [2].

In conclusion, Adora2a is crucial in multiple biological processes. The gene knockout mouse models have revealed its important roles in neuroendocrine malignancies and colorectal cancer, which helps in understanding the underlying mechanisms and provides potential therapeutic targets for these diseases.