C1QBP, also known as gC1qR/p33, p32, or HABP-1, is a multi-functional and multi-compartmental protein. It is primarily localized in the mitochondrial matrix and associated with mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylative function [6]. C1QBP is involved in numerous biological processes such as DNA damage response, mitochondrial plasticity, and cell-to-cell communication, and is associated with various diseases including cancer [2,4,3].

In pancreatic cancer, the exosomal CD44v6/C1QBP complex promotes liver metastasis by inducing fibrotic liver microenvironment formation [1]. In breast cancer, C1QBP promotes cell proliferation and growth via multiple signalling pathways [8]. In laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, circMTCL1 accelerates C1QBP expression by inhibiting its ubiquitin-proteasome-mediated degradation, promoting cancer progression [5]. In renal cell carcinoma, C1QBP promotes hypoxanthine catabolism and elevates apoptosis by modulating xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH)-mediated ROS generation [9]. Additionally, extracellular C1qbp inhibits myogenesis by suppressing NFATc1, which may be relevant to muscle loss conditions [7].

In conclusion, C1QBP is crucial for multiple biological functions, especially in mitochondrial-related processes and cell growth regulation. Its dysregulation is associated with various cancers and muscle-related conditions. Studies on C1QBP using in vivo models like mouse models help to understand its role in disease mechanisms, providing potential targets for therapeutic intervention in these disease areas.