GABARAPL1, also known as GEC1, is a gene in the GABARAP family. It shares high sequence homology with GABARAP and interacts with the GABAA receptor and tubulin, promoting tubulin polymerization. The GABARAP family members, including GABARAPL1, are involved in protein or vesicle transport, autophagy, cell death, cell proliferation, and tumor progression [1].

In lung adenocarcinoma, GABARAPL1 knockout induced EMT, suggesting it might intervene in an EMT-regulatory loop by degrading SMAD proteins [2]. In AR-positive prostate cancer, GABARAPL1 knockdown inhibited cell growth, decreased AR/AR-V transcription activity and AR nuclear translocation, indicating it is a critical regulator of FL-AR/AR-V [3]. In prostate cancer, GABARAPL1 was identified as a potential metastasis suppressor. Knockdown of GABARAPL1 in LNCaP cells increased invasion in vitro and lymph node metastasis in vivo, while its overexpression decreased invasiveness. The suppression of FOXOs-GABARAPL1 signaling by Akt is an important mechanism for prostate cancer progression and metastasis [4].

In conclusion, GABARAPL1 plays diverse roles in biological processes, especially in cancer-related events. Through gene knockout models in various cancer types, we've learned that it can influence processes like EMT, cell growth, and metastasis. Understanding GABARAPL1's functions helps in uncovering the mechanisms of cancer development, potentially providing new targets for cancer treatment.