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Targeting Oncogenic Transcriptional Networks in Neuroblastoma: From N-Myc to Epigenetic Drugs

Roberto Ciaccio1, Piergiuseppe De Rosa1, Sara Aloisi1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|December 10, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Neuroblastoma (NB) development hinges on gene expression dysregulation, driven by genetic and epigenetic changes. Targeting key transcriptional regulators offers promising multi-modal therapeutic strategies for this childhood cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Neuroblastoma (NB) is a common childhood cancer originating from nerve cells.
  • Gene expression dysregulation, driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations, is central to NB development.
  • NB cells depend on specific transcriptional regulators for their identity and function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of transcriptional regulation in NB initiation and progression.
  • To unveil oncogenic and tumor suppressive regulatory networks in NB.
  • To highlight the potential of multi-target therapies for NB treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of transcriptional regulation in neuroblastoma.
  • Analysis of genetic and epigenetic alterations impacting gene expression.
  • Evaluation of therapeutic strategies targeting transcriptional regulators.

Main Results:

  • Transcriptional dysregulation is a key driver of NB initiation and progression.
  • Complex oncogenic and tumor suppressive regulatory networks govern NB.
  • Key master transcriptional regulators are crucial for NB cell survival and function.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding transcriptional regulation is vital for neuroblastoma research.
  • Targeting master transcriptional regulators presents a promising therapeutic avenue.
  • Combination therapies, including novel approaches, show potential for treating NB.
Keywords:
CRCGD2HDACiMYCNepigenetic therapiesgene expressionneuroblastomaoncogeneregulatory networktumour suppressor

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