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Updated: Feb 8, 2026
Working with Human Tissues for Translational Cancer Research
Published on: November 26, 2015
Translational Control in Cancer
Nathaniel Robichaud1, Nahum Sonenberg1, Davide Ruggero2
1Goodman Cancer Research Centre and Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada.
Abstract:
The translation of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) into proteins is a key event in the regulation of gene expression. This is especially true in the cancer setting, as many oncogenes and transforming events are regulated at this level. Cancer-promoting factors that are translationally regulated include cyclins, antiapoptotic factors, proangiogenic factors, regulators of cell metabolism, prometastatic factors, immune modulators, and proteins involved in DNA repair. This review discusses the diverse means by which cancer cells deregulate and reprogram translation, and the resulting oncogenic impacts, providing insights into the complexity of translational control in cancer and its targeting for cancer therapy.
Insights
Cancer cells hijack messenger RNA (mRNA) translation to promote growth and spread. Understanding and targeting these translational control mechanisms offers new cancer therapy strategies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Gene Expression Regulation
Background:
- Protein synthesis via messenger RNA (mRNA) translation is crucial for gene expression regulation.
- Aberrant mRNA translation plays a significant role in oncogenesis and cancer progression.
- Numerous cancer-promoting factors, including cyclins and metabolic regulators, are translationally controlled.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse mechanisms cancer cells employ to deregulate mRNA translation.
- To elucidate the oncogenic impacts of reprogrammed translation in cancer.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting translational control in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on mRNA translation in cancer.
- Analysis of oncogenic factors regulated at the translational level.
- Synthesis of information on therapeutic strategies targeting translation.
Main Results:
- Cancer cells exhibit complex deregulation and reprogramming of mRNA translation.
- Translationally controlled factors significantly contribute to cancer hallmarks like proliferation, survival, and metastasis.
- Targeting specific translational pathways presents a promising avenue for novel cancer therapies.
Conclusions:
- Translational control is a critical layer of gene regulation exploited by cancer cells.
- Understanding the nuances of cancer-specific translation is essential for developing effective therapies.
- Targeting mRNA translation offers a versatile strategy for combating various cancers.
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