Targeting of protein translation as a new treatment paradigm for prostate cancer

Purpose of review: The current overview will summarize some of the developments in the area of protein translation, including their relation to the therapeutic targeting of prostate cancer. Recent findings: Translational control, mediated by the rate-limiting eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E), drives selective translation of several oncogenic proteins, thereby contributing to tumor growth, metastasis, and treatment resistance in various cancers, including prostate cancer. As an essential regulatory hub, several oncogenic hyperactive signaling pathways appear to converge on eIF4E to promote tumorigenesis. Several approaches that target the eIF4E-dependent protein translation network are being actively studied, and it is likely that some may ultimately emerge as promising anticancer therapeutics. Summary: An array of inhibitors has shown promise in targeting specific components of the translational machinery in several preclinical models of prostate cancer. It is hoped that some of these approaches may ultimately have relevance in improving the clinical outcomes of patients with advanced prostate cancer.
Source: Current Opinion in Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: GENITOURINARY SYSTEM: Edited by Arif Hussain Source Type: research