Related Experiment Videos
Translation initiation in cancer: a novel target for therapy
1Department of Surgical Oncology, Box 444, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA. fmeric@mdanderson.org
Abstract:
Translation initiation is regulated in response to nutrient availability and mitogenic stimulation and is coupled with cell cycle progression and cell growth. Several alterations in translational control occur in cancer. Variant mRNA sequences can alter the translational efficiency of individual mRNA molecules, which in turn play a role in cancer biology. Changes in the expression or availability of components of the translational machinery and in the activation of translation through signal transduction pathways can lead to more global changes, such as an increase in the overall rate of protein synthesis and translational activation of the mRNA molecules involved in cell growth and proliferation. We review the basic principles of translational control, the alterations encountered in cancer, and selected therapies targeting translation initiation to help elucidate new therapeutic avenues.
Insights
Cancer cells reprogram translation initiation for growth. Understanding these changes and targeting translation offers new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Translation initiation is a key regulatory point for protein synthesis, influencing cell growth and proliferation.
- Aberrant translational control is a hallmark of cancer, impacting oncogenesis.
- Changes in mRNA variants, translational machinery, and signaling pathways contribute to cancer development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the fundamental principles of translational control.
- To examine alterations in translational control specific to cancer.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting translation initiation in cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of basic principles of translational control.
- Analysis of alterations in translational control in cancer.
- Survey of current therapies targeting translation initiation.
Main Results:
- Nutrient availability and mitogenic signals regulate translation initiation, linking it to cell cycle progression.
- Cancer involves diverse alterations in translational control, including variant mRNA sequences and changes in translational machinery.
- Signal transduction pathways activate translation, promoting synthesis of proteins crucial for cell growth and proliferation.
Conclusions:
- Dysregulated translation initiation is integral to cancer biology.
- Targeting translation initiation presents promising therapeutic avenues for cancer treatment.
- Further research into translational control mechanisms can uncover novel anti-cancer strategies.