The Roles of SHCBP1 in Cancer Hallmarks: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

The SHCBP1 (SHC SH2-domain-binding protein 1) is identified as an important regulator of cancer biology, participating in the modulation of multiple cancer hallmarks. Initially discovered as a component of the mitotic midbody essential for cytokinesis, SHCBP1 is now recognized for orchestrating a broad spectrum of oncogenic processes such as persistent proliferation, apoptosis resistance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and immune system evasion. This review comprehensively explores the molecular features of SHCBP1, its regulatory networks, and its multifaceted roles in cancer progression. SHCBP1 is commonly overexpressed in diverse cancers, with elevated expression levels strongly associated with more aggressive tumors and unfavorable patient prognosis. Mechanistically, SHCBP1 serves as a potential mediator of oncogenic signaling pathways, thereby regulating mitotic processes, transcriptional alterations, and cytoskeletal reorganization. In addition to its biological functions, SHCBP1 offers translational promise as a prognostic marker and a prospective therapeutic target. Preclinical models indicate that genetic depletion or pharmacologic disruption of SHCBP1 limits tumor growth, increases sensitivity to chemotherapy, and reduces metastatic capacity. Despite significant progress, the development of selective SHCBP1 inhibitors remain challenging areas. This review summarizes SHCBP1's diverse roles in tumor pathogenesis and outlines future research directions to develop SHCBP1-targeted strategies.