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Updated: Mar 7, 2026

Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Targeting SOX9 for degradation to inhibit chemoresistance, metastatic spread, and recurrence
Aldwin Suryo Rahmanto1, Fredrik J Swartling2, Olle Sangfelt1
1Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institute , Stockholm, Sweden.
Abstract:
Cancer cells with stem-like properties are believed to contribute to treatment resistance, dissemination, and recurrence. SOX9 controls stem cell plasticity and its deregulation may provide a basis for tumor progression. Here, we summarize our findings of targeted SOX9 destruction by SCFFBW7 (Skp1/Cul1/F-box) in medulloblastoma and its potential for therapeutic intervention.
Insights
Cancer stem cells drive treatment resistance. Our study shows SCFFBW7 targets SOX9 in medulloblastoma, offering a potential new therapy for this aggressive brain tumor.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Stem Cell Research
Background:
- Cancer cells with stem-like properties are implicated in treatment resistance, tumor spread, and recurrence.
- SOX9 is a key regulator of stem cell plasticity, and its abnormal activity can promote tumor progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of SOX9 in medulloblastoma.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting SOX9 destruction.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of SOX9 regulation in medulloblastoma.
- Investigating the SCFFBW7 ubiquitin ligase complex's role in SOX9 degradation.
Main Results:
- SOX9 destruction is mediated by the SCFFBW7 complex in medulloblastoma.
- Targeting SOX9 degradation presents a potential therapeutic strategy.
Conclusions:
- The SCFFBW7-mediated destruction of SOX9 is a critical mechanism in medulloblastoma.
- Inhibiting SOX9 activity through targeted degradation offers a promising avenue for cancer therapy.

