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Autophagy Regulation by the Translation Machinery and Its Implications in Cancer
Pilar Sarah Acevo-Rodríguez1, Giovanna Maldonado2, Susana Castro-Obregón1
1PSA-R and SC-O, División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico.
Abstract:
Various metabolic pathways and molecular processes in the cell act intertwined, and dysregulating the interplay between some of them may lead to cancer. It is only recently that defects in the translation process, i.e., the synthesis of proteins by the ribosome using a messenger (m)RNA as a template and translation factors, have begun to gain strong attention as a cause of autophagy dysregulation with effects in different maladies, including cancer. Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved catabolic process that degrades cytoplasmic elements in lysosomes. It maintains cellular homeostasis and preserves cell viability under various stress conditions, which is crucial for all eukaryotic cells. In this review, we discuss recent advances shedding light on the crosstalk between the translation and the autophagy machineries and its impact on tumorigenesis. We also summarize how this interaction is being the target for novel therapies to treat cancer.
Insights
Defects in protein synthesis (translation) disrupt cellular recycling (autophagy), contributing to cancer development. Understanding this link offers new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Metabolic pathways and molecular processes are interconnected, with dysregulation potentially leading to cancer.
- Defects in protein synthesis (translation) are increasingly recognized as a cause of autophagy dysregulation.
- Autophagy is a vital cellular process for maintaining homeostasis and viability, especially under stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances on the crosstalk between translation and autophagy machineries.
- To elucidate the impact of this interaction on tumorigenesis.
- To summarize the therapeutic potential of targeting this interaction in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific advances.
- Synthesis of information on molecular mechanisms.
- Analysis of the role in cancer development and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Emerging evidence highlights the significant role of translation defects in autophagy dysregulation.
- The interplay between translation and autophagy is crucial for cellular homeostasis and has profound effects on cancer.
- This crosstalk represents a promising target for novel anti-cancer therapies.
Conclusions:
- The intricate relationship between translation and autophagy is a key factor in cancer.
- Targeting the molecular mechanisms governing this interaction holds potential for innovative cancer therapies.
- Further research into this crosstalk is essential for developing effective treatments.
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