Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most common and lethal malignant tumors. Currently, surgical resection is the most effective treatment for early-stage lung cancer, and often results in favorable recovery outcomes. Therefore, early detection and control of lung cancer occurrence, invasion and metastasis are crucial for improving patient survival rates. Identifying tumor markers for lung cancer plays a vital role in facilitating early detection and control of its progression. The GALNT family proteins are enzymes that regulate the initial step in mucin O-glycan synthesis. It has been revealed that the expression of polypeptide N-acetyl-galactosamine-transferase (GALNT) family members is dysregulated in various tumors, and is closely associated with tumorigenesis, tumor cell growth, metastasis, adhesion, and serves as an important early indicator of tumor development. The present review compiles and analyzes findings concerning the role of GALNT family proteins in regulating lung cancer, with the goals of elucidating their mechanisms in lung cancer occurrence and progression and providing insights for improving the prognosis and therapeutic treatment of patients with lung cancer.