The Roles of TOPK in Tumorigenesis and Development: Structure, Mechanisms, Pathways, and Therapeutic Implications

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• T-LAK cell-originated protein kinase (TOPK), also known as PDZ-binding kinase, is a serine/threonine kinase in the mitogen-activated protein kinase family.
• TOPK regulates critical cellular processes including proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation, and is dysregulated in various cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an in-depth examination of TOPK's molecular structure and its role in tumorigenesis.
• To elucidate the mechanisms underlying TOPK's oncogenic activity and its regulation of the tumor microenvironment.
• To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting TOPK in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of existing research on TOPK.
• Examination of TOPK's molecular structure and signaling pathways.
• Discussion of preclinical and clinical studies investigating TOPK inhibitors.

Main Results:

• TOPK is predominantly expressed in proliferating cells and activates oncogenic signaling pathways (e.g., ERK/RSK/c-Jun) promoting cancer progression.
• TOPK contributes to cancer cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis resistance, and immune evasion.
• TOPK's dysregulation is a key factor in cancer pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• TOPK is a critical oncogenic kinase and a promising therapeutic target for novel cancer treatments.
• Targeting TOPK may offer a new strategy to combat various cancers by inhibiting key oncogenic pathways.
• Further research and clinical trials are necessary to overcome challenges in translating TOPK inhibition into effective clinical practice.