Deubiquitinating enzymes in cervical cancer: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications (Review)

Cervical cancer (CC) remains a major global gynecological malignancy, with a rising incidence among younger women in specific regions. Human papillomavirus (HPV) screening and cytological examination have markedly reduced the disease burden; nonetheless, tumor progression, therapeutic resistance and recurrence continue to pose major clinical challenges. Thus, elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of CC is crucial. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) regulate ubiquitin‑dependent protein turnover and signaling, emerging as vital modulators of cell cycle progression, DNA damage response, apoptosis, immune regulation and HPV‑associated carcinogenesis. Notably, DUBs facilitate CC progression by stabilizing oncogenic proteins, regulating tumor suppressors and modulating major signaling pathways. In addition, several DUBs are closely associated with radiosensitivity, chemoresistance and potential targeted therapeutic strategies. The present review summarizes the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications of DUBs in CC, while discussing their translational value for future clinical applications.