DNA and RNA Binding Proteins: From Motifs to Roles in Cancer

Ondrej Bonczek1,2, Lixiao Wang2, Sivakumar Vadivel Gnanasundram2

  • 1Research Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology (RECAMO), Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute (MMCI), Zluty Kopec 7, 656 53 Brno, Czech Republic.

Insights

DNA and RNA binding proteins (DRBPs) regulate gene expression and nucleotide metabolism. This review highlights DRBPs involved in cancer, discussing their roles and potential as therapeutic targets.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • DNA and RNA binding proteins (DRBPs) are crucial regulators of cellular processes, including nucleotide metabolism and gene expression.
  • Dysregulation of DRBPs is linked to various diseases, notably cancer, underscoring their importance in disease pathogenesis.
  • Understanding the diverse functions and interactions of DRBPs is essential for deciphering cancer's molecular mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and categorize DNA-binding, RNA-binding, and combined DRBPs.
  • To identify DRBPs implicated in cancer through database analysis and a custom pipeline.
  • To explore the biochemical, molecular, and cellular properties of cancer-associated DRBPs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and categorization of DRBPs based on binding specificities (DNA, RNA, or both).
  • Cross-search analysis of protein databases and application of a proprietary pipeline to identify cancer-relevant DRBPs.
  • Analysis of biochemical, molecular biological, and cellular characteristics of identified DRBPs.

Main Results:

  • Summary of different classes of DNA-binding, RNA-binding, and DRBPs, emphasizing their similarities and differences.
  • Identification of specific DRBPs frequently associated with various cancer types.
  • Detailed discussion of the functions and properties of common cancer-associated DRBPs.

Conclusions:

  • DRBPs play critical roles in cancer development and progression.
  • Specific DRBPs represent promising targets for novel cancer therapies.
  • Further investigation into DRBP functions and dysregulation is warranted for therapeutic advancements.

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