Epigenetic modification in the expression of p73 p73 - epigenetic target for anticancer therapy

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• The p53 family includes p73, a transcription factor with tumor suppressor and oncogenic roles.
• p73 exists as TAp73 (active, tumor suppressor) and ΔNp73 (inactive, oncogene).
• Alternative splicing generates various p73 isoforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of p73 in cancer.
• To summarize p73 modifications and their effects.
• To consolidate current knowledge on p73's function and regulation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing data on p73.
• Analysis of p73 family members, isoforms, and functions.
• Examination of posttranslational modifications and their impact on p73.

Main Results:

• TAp73 acts as a tumor suppressor, inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.
• ΔNp73 functions as an oncogene.
• Posttranslational modifications alter p73 expression, activity, and stability.
• Isoform diversity arises from alternative splicing.

Conclusions:

• p73 plays a critical role in cancer through its distinct isoforms and regulatory mechanisms.
• Understanding p73 modifications is key to comprehending its function in tumorigenesis.
• This review provides a comprehensive overview of p73's involvement in cancer.