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RNA-Binding Proteins as Regulators of Migration, Invasion and Metastasis in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Jonas Weiße1, Julia Rosemann1, Vanessa Krauspe1
1Junior Research Group 'RNA Biology and Pathogenesis', Medical Faculty, Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle/Saale, Germany.
Abstract:
Nearly 7.5% of all human protein-coding genes have been assigned to the class of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), and over the past decade, RBPs have been increasingly recognized as important regulators of molecular and cellular homeostasis. RBPs regulate the post-transcriptional processing of their target RNAs, i.e., alternative splicing, polyadenylation, stability and turnover, localization, or translation as well as editing and chemical modification, thereby tuning gene expression programs of diverse cellular processes such as cell survival and malignant spread. Importantly, metastases are the major cause of cancer-associated deaths in general, and particularly in oral cancers, which account for 2% of the global cancer mortality. However, the roles and architecture of RBPs and RBP-controlled expression networks during the diverse steps of the metastatic cascade are only incompletely understood. In this review, we will offer a brief overview about RBPs and their general contribution to post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Subsequently, we will highlight selected examples of RBPs that have been shown to play a role in oral cancer cell migration, invasion, and metastasis. Last but not least, we will present targeting strategies that have been developed to interfere with the function of some of these RBPs.
Insights
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate gene expression and cellular homeostasis. This review explores RBPs' roles in oral cancer metastasis and potential therapeutic targeting strategies for these critical regulators.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
- Genetics
Background:
- RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are crucial regulators of gene expression, influencing processes like splicing, translation, and RNA stability.
- Approximately 7.5% of human protein-coding genes encode RBPs, highlighting their significance in cellular functions and homeostasis.
- Dysregulation of RBPs is implicated in various diseases, including cancer, where they can influence cell survival and malignant spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of RBPs and their general role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
- To highlight specific RBPs involved in oral cancer cell migration, invasion, and metastasis.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting RBPs in oral cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on RBPs and their functions in gene expression.
- Analysis of studies investigating RBP roles in oral cancer metastasis.
- Compilation of information on RBP-targeting strategies.
Main Results:
- RBPs are key regulators of post-transcriptional RNA processing, impacting diverse cellular processes.
- Several RBPs have been identified as significant players in the metastatic cascade of oral cancers.
- Targeting specific RBPs offers potential therapeutic avenues for combating oral cancer metastasis.
Conclusions:
- RBPs significantly influence gene expression and are implicated in the progression of oral cancers.
- Understanding RBP networks is crucial for deciphering the mechanisms of oral cancer metastasis.
- Targeting RBPs presents a promising strategy for developing novel oral cancer therapies.
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