Transcription factors and neoplasia: vistas in novel drug design
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Updated: Oct 1, 2026

Mapping the Structure-Function Relationships of Disordered Oncogenic Transcription Factors Using Transcriptomic Analysis
Published on: June 27, 2020
Mihalis V Karamouzis1, Vassilis G Gorgoulis, Athanasios G Papavassiliou
1Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Patras, GR-26110, Greece.
Purpose:
The fundamental role of gene transcription and the recognition of transcription factors as important control elements of cell growth, differentiation, and programmed cell death (apoptosis) aroused an ever-increasing interest for these proteins as potential pharmaceutical targets for therapeutic intervention in various diseases, among them cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN-RESULTS: The vast array of information available for their molecular architecture and mode of action in various biological contexts, combined with the new opportunities offered by the flourishing technologies of structure-based drug design, computer-aided modeling, and functional genomics/proteomics, are creating an exciting scenery for the development of a novel generation of highly selective drugs.
Conclusions:
This transcription factor-based therapeutic approach may revolutionize the anticancer drug options and will add significantly to the current clinical armamentarium.
Insights
Transcription factors are key regulators of cell processes and are emerging as promising targets for novel anticancer drugs. This approach holds potential to significantly advance cancer treatment options.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Transcription factors regulate critical cellular processes including growth, differentiation, and apoptosis.
- Their role in disease, particularly cancer, has spurred interest in their therapeutic potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore transcription factors as pharmaceutical targets for cancer therapy.
- To leverage advancements in drug design and genomics for developing novel anticancer agents.
Main Methods:
- Structure-based drug design
- Computer-aided modeling
- Functional genomics and proteomics
Main Results:
- Integration of molecular data with advanced technologies facilitates the development of targeted therapies.
- Identification of novel strategies for highly selective drug discovery.
Conclusions:
- Transcription factor-targeted therapies represent a promising frontier in oncology.
- This approach could revolutionize current anticancer drug options and expand the clinical armamentarium.
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