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Updated: Feb 17, 2026

Evaluation of Substrate Ubiquitylation by E3 Ubiquitin-ligase in Mammalian Cell Lysates
Published on: May 10, 2022
Positioning of proteasome inhibitors in therapy of solid malignancies
Margot S F Roeten1, Jacqueline Cloos2,3, Gerrit Jansen4
1Department of Hematology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Targeting of the protein degradation pathway, in particular, the ubiquitin-proteasome system, has emerged as an attractive novel cancer chemotherapeutic modality. Although proteasome inhibitors have been most successfully applied in the treatment of hematological malignancies, they also received continuing interest for the treatment of solid tumors. In this review, we summarize the current positioning of proteasome inhibitors in the treatment of common solid malignancies (e.g., lung, colon, pancreas, breast, and head and neck cancer), addressing topics of their mechanism(s) of action, predictive factors and molecular mechanisms of resistance.
Insights
Proteasome inhibitors offer a novel cancer chemotherapy approach, showing promise for solid tumors beyond blood cancers. This review covers their use in lung, colon, pancreatic, breast, and head and neck cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is a key cellular pathway regulating protein degradation.
- Targeting the UPS with proteasome inhibitors has shown efficacy in hematological malignancies.
- Growing interest exists in applying proteasome inhibitors to solid tumor treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current clinical applications of proteasome inhibitors in common solid tumors.
- To discuss the mechanisms of action and resistance to proteasome inhibitors in solid tumors.
- To identify predictive factors for proteasome inhibitor therapy in solid malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on proteasome inhibitors in solid tumors.
- Analysis of data on efficacy, safety, and resistance mechanisms.
- Synthesis of information on predictive biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Proteasome inhibitors are being investigated for lung, colon, pancreatic, breast, and head and neck cancers.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for optimizing treatment.
- Predictive factors are being identified to guide patient selection.
Conclusions:
- Proteasome inhibitors represent a promising therapeutic avenue for solid tumors.
- Further research is needed to overcome resistance and establish optimal treatment protocols.
- Personalized approaches based on predictive factors may enhance patient outcomes.
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