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The chromosome 21 kinase DYRK1A: emerging roles in cancer biology and potential as a therapeutic target
Malini Rammohan1, Ethan Harris2,3, Rahul S Bhansali4
1Driskill Graduate Program in Life Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
Abstract:
Dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1 A (DYRK1A) is a serine/threonine kinase that belongs to the DYRK family of proteins, a subgroup of the evolutionarily conserved CMGC protein kinase superfamily. Due to its localization on chromosome 21, the biological significance of DYRK1A was initially characterized in the pathogenesis of Down syndrome (DS) and related neurodegenerative diseases. However, increasing evidence has demonstrated a prominent role in cancer through its ability to regulate biologic processes including cell cycle progression, DNA damage repair, transcription, ubiquitination, tyrosine kinase activity, and cancer stem cell maintenance. DYRK1A has been identified as both an oncogene and tumor suppressor in different models, underscoring the importance of cellular context in its function. Here, we review mechanistic contributions of DYRK1A to cancer biology and its role as a potential therapeutic target.
Insights
Dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) impacts cancer by regulating key processes like cell cycle and DNA repair. Its dual role as an oncogene or tumor suppressor highlights context-dependent therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- DYRK1A is a serine/threonine kinase in the CMGC superfamily, located on chromosome 21.
- Initially studied in Down syndrome, DYRK1A's role in cancer is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanistic contributions of DYRK1A in cancer biology.
- To explore DYRK1A as a potential therapeutic target in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of DYRK1A's functions in cancer.
- Analysis of DYRK1A's role in cell cycle, DNA repair, transcription, and stem cell maintenance.
Main Results:
- DYRK1A regulates critical cancer-related processes including cell cycle progression and DNA damage repair.
- DYRK1A functions as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor, depending on cellular context.
Conclusions:
- DYRK1A plays a multifaceted role in cancer development and progression.
- Targeting DYRK1A presents a potential therapeutic strategy, requiring consideration of its context-dependent function.
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