Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025

Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Advancements and perspectives of RBX2 as a molecular hallmark in cancer
Yiran Tao1, Lirui Dai2, Wulong Liang3
1Department of Neurosurgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China; Henan International Joint Laboratory of Glioma Metabolism and Microenvironment Research, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China.
Abstract:
Cancer is a challenging issue for human health. One of the key methods to address this issue is by comprehending the molecular causes of tumors and creating medications that target those causes. RBX2 (RING box protein 2), also known as ROC2 (Regulator of Cullins 2), RNF7 (RING Finger Protein 7), or SAG (Sensitive to Apoptosis Gene) is a key component of the Cullin-RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligases (CRLs) and overexpressed in various human cancers. RBX2 is a potential drug target, the expression of which correlates with tumor staging, grading, and prognosis analysis. Through a synergistically biological interaction with Kras mutation in preclinical models, RBX2 accelerated the progression of skin cancer, pancreatic cancer, and lung cancer. In accordance, the aberrant expression of RBX2 will lead to dysregulation of many signaling pathways, which is crucial for tumor initiation and growth. However, the impact of RBX2 on tumors also intriguingly demonstrates a spatial reliance manner. In this review, we summarized the current understanding of RBX2 in multiple cancer types and suggested a significant potential of RBX2 as a therapeutic target.
Insights
RING box protein 2 (RBX2) is overexpressed in many cancers and accelerates tumor progression, particularly with Kras mutations. Targeting RBX2 presents a promising therapeutic strategy for various cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cancer remains a significant global health challenge.
- Understanding tumor molecular drivers is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- RBX2, a component of E3 ubiquitin ligases, is overexpressed in various human cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of RBX2's role in multiple cancer types.
- To highlight RBX2 as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing existing research on RBX2 in cancer.
- Analysis of RBX2's correlation with tumor staging, grading, and prognosis.
- Examination of RBX2's interaction with Kras mutations in preclinical models.
Main Results:
- RBX2 overexpression is linked to tumor progression and poor prognosis.
- RBX2 synergistically interacts with Kras mutations, accelerating skin, pancreatic, and lung cancer.
- Aberrant RBX2 expression dysregulates critical tumor signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
- RBX2 plays a significant role in tumor initiation and growth.
- The impact of RBX2 on tumors exhibits spatial reliance.
- RBX2 represents a promising and viable therapeutic target for diverse cancers.
Related Concept Videos
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Abnormal Proliferation
Tumor Progression
Colon cancer is one of the best-documented examples of tumor progression. Early mutation in the APC gene in colon cells causes a small growth on the colon wall called a polyp. With time, this polyp grows into a benign, pre-cancerous tumor. Further...
Adaptive Mechanisms in Cancer Cells
Some of the advantages that cancer cells have on normal cells include - enhanced ability to divide without terminally differentiating, induce new blood vessel formation,...
Small GTPases - Ras and Rho
Three regulatory proteins control their activity:

