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Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Describing a Transcription Factor Dependent Regulation of the MicroRNA Transcriptome
Published on: June 15, 2016
ETS transcription factors as emerging drug targets in cancer
Michael Hsing1, Yuzhuo Wang1, Paul S Rennie1
1Vancouver Prostate Centre and the Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Abstract:
The ETS family of proteins consists of 28 transcription factors, many of which have been implicated in development and progression of a variety of cancers. While one family member, ERG, has been rigorously studied in the context of prostate cancer where it plays a critical role, other ETS factors keep emerging as potential hallmark oncodrivers. In recent years, numerous studies have reported initial discoveries of small molecule inhibitors of ETS proteins and opened novel avenues for ETS-directed cancer therapies. This review summarizes the state of the art data on therapeutic targeting of ETS family members and highlights the corresponding drug discovery strategies.
Insights
This review covers therapeutic strategies targeting ETS transcription factors, which are crucial in cancer development. It highlights recent progress in discovering small molecule inhibitors for novel cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Oncology
- Drug discovery
Background:
- The ETS (E26 transformation-specific) family comprises 28 transcription factors involved in various cancers.
- While ERG is well-studied in prostate cancer, other ETS factors are emerging as key cancer drivers.
- Small molecule inhibitors targeting ETS proteins are a new frontier in cancer therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current therapeutic strategies for targeting ETS family members.
- To highlight drug discovery approaches for ETS-directed cancer therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on ETS protein inhibitors.
- Analysis of drug discovery strategies for ETS-targeted therapies.
Main Results:
- Numerous studies report initial discoveries of small molecule inhibitors for ETS proteins.
- Novel therapeutic avenues for ETS-directed cancer treatments are emerging.
Conclusions:
- Targeting ETS family members represents a promising strategy for cancer therapy.
- Continued drug discovery efforts are essential for developing effective ETS-directed treatments.
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