The γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor subunit delta (GABRD) constitutes a critical component of the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors within the brain. Recent investigations have revealed aberrant expression of GABRD across a spectrum of non-neural malignancies, including breast, colorectal, and gastric cancers, wherein it exhibits a multifaceted and paradoxical role in oncogenesis. This review delineates the biological characteristics of GABRD and its involvement in cancer pathophysiology. Specifically, the activation of GABRD is implicated in the initiation of key downstream signaling pathways that facilitate the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells. Additionally, the review examines the interaction between GABRD and the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, it provides an analysis of the diverse roles and mechanisms attributed to GABRD across various cancer types. In conclusion, this review encapsulates the current advancements in understanding the oncogenic functions of GABRD and deliberates on its potential and challenges as a novel target for therapeutic intervention.
Ji et al. (2026) studied this question.