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Updated: Nov 9, 2025

Author Spotlight: A Selective Luciferase-Based Assay for Monitoring ATG4B 27 Activity in Cells
Published on: June 30, 2023
Targeting the stress support network regulated by autophagy and senescence for cancer treatment
Jaejin Kim1, Yeonghyeon Lee1, Kyeonghwan Roh1
1School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
Abstract:
Autophagy and cellular senescence are two potent tumor suppressive mechanisms activated by various cellular stresses, including the expression of activated oncogenes. However, emerging evidence has also indicated their pro-tumorigenic activities, strengthening the case for the complexity of tumorigenesis. More specifically, tumorigenesis is a systemic process emanating from the combined accumulation of changes in the tumor support pathways, many of which cannot cause cancer on their own but might still provide excellent therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. In this review, we discuss the dual roles of autophagy and senescence during tumorigenesis, with a specific focus on the stress support networks in cancer cells modulated by these processes. A deeper understanding of such context-dependent roles may help to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies targeting autophagy and senescence, while limiting their potential side effects. This will steer and accelerate the pace of research and drug development for cancer treatment.
Insights
Autophagy and cellular senescence are complex tumor suppressors that can also promote cancer. Understanding their dual roles in cancer cell stress networks is key for developing effective cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Autophagy and cellular senescence are known tumor suppressive mechanisms activated by cellular stress.
- Emerging evidence suggests these processes also exhibit pro-tumorigenic activities, highlighting the complexity of tumorigenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dual roles of autophagy and cellular senescence in tumorigenesis.
- To focus on how these processes modulate stress support networks in cancer cells.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on autophagy, cellular senescence, and cancer.
- Analysis of the interplay between these cellular processes and tumor support pathways.
Main Results:
- Autophagy and senescence display context-dependent roles in cancer, acting as both tumor suppressors and promoters.
- These processes significantly influence cancer cell stress response and survival pathways.
Conclusions:
- A deeper understanding of the dual roles of autophagy and senescence is crucial for improving cancer therapy efficacy.
- Targeting these pathways effectively could enhance cancer treatments while minimizing side effects, accelerating drug development.
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