RNA splicing regulation and tumor: A focus on the multifunctional SRSF family as a therapeutic target

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Alternative splicing (AS) is a key process regulating gene expression and protein diversity.
• Aberrant AS events are increasingly recognized as drivers of tumor initiation and progression.
• Splicing actors, particularly RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), play critical roles in controlling carcinogenic AS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the literature on prominent splicing actor families and their roles in cancer.
• To explore the structural, regulatory, and functional aspects of these splicing actors.
• To summarize recent advancements in therapeutic strategies targeting splicing actors for cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review and assessment of existing studies.
• Structural analysis of key splicing actors.
• Analysis of regulatory mechanisms governing alternative splicing in cancer.
• Review of pharmacological agents targeting splicing actors.

Main Results:

• Identified five prominent splicing actor families involved in cancer.
• Detailed the functions and regulatory roles of serine and arginine-rich splicing factor (SRSF) family members in various tumor types.
• Summarized novel therapeutic approaches targeting splicing actors.

Conclusions:

• Splicing actors are critical regulators of carcinogenic alternative splicing.
• Targeting splicing actors presents a promising avenue for precision cancer medicine.
• Further understanding of splicing actor intricacies can enhance tumor treatment strategies.