Exploring the oncogenic mechanism of plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) gene in solid cancers; emphasis on

Mojtaba Zehtabi1, Shirin Azizidoost2, Abdolah Mousavi Salehi3,4

  • 1Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.

Cancer Cell International
|January 30, 2026
PubMed

Insights

PVT1, a non-coding RNA, significantly promotes cancer progression and metastasis by enhancing cell proliferation and reducing apoptosis. Its overexpression is linked to poor survival, highlighting PVT1 as a potential cancer prognostic marker.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • PVT1 is a versatile non-coding RNA (ncRNA) involved in critical cellular processes like survival, differentiation, proliferation, and chromatin regulation.
  • PVT1 functions as a scaffold, decoy, guide, or enhancer RNA, influencing gene expression throughout its lifecycle via epigenetic and post-transcriptional mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively analyze the multifaceted roles and mechanisms of PVT1 in cancer development and progression.
  • To elucidate the intricate relationship between PVT1, microRNAs (miRNAs), and cancer pathogenesis.
  • To identify potential therapeutic strategies targeting PVT1 and its associated signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Extensive literature review and analysis of PVT1 functions in various biological contexts.
  • Examination of PVT1's role in gene regulation, including chromatin remodeling and epigenetic modifications.
  • Analysis of PVT1 expression patterns in different human cancers and their correlation with clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

  • PVT1 overexpression significantly increases cell proliferation (up to 30%) and decreases apoptosis.
  • PVT1 fusion transcripts are prevalent in various solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
  • High PVT1 expression correlates with advanced cancer stage, metastasis, and reduced patient survival.

Conclusions:

  • Upregulated PVT1 is a critical driver of carcinogenesis and tumor metastasis.
  • PVT1's complex regulatory functions underscore its importance in cancer biology.
  • PVT1 expression serves as a promising prognostic biomarker for various human cancers, offering potential therapeutic targets.

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