AEBP1 and cancer: Aortic carboxypeptidase-like protein (ACLP) activates the CAF markers such as actin alpha 2 (ACTA2), FAP, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRB) via TGF-β1 signaling, enhancing cancer cell migration and reducing CD8+ T cell infiltration, thereby creating an immunosuppressive TME [61].