SUMOylation code in cancer development and metastasis

Mol Cells. 2006 Dec 31;22(3):247-53.

Abstract

Protein modification by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) controls diverse cellular functions of protein targets including transcription factors and coregulators mainly in the nucleus and participates in maintaining cellular homeostasis. In addition, SUMO system plays important roles in DNA damage repair and maintaining genome integrity. Thus, in some cases, the loss of control on SUMOylation or deSUMOylation processes causes a defect in maintaining homeostasis and hence gives a cue to cancer development. Furthermore, recent study showed that SUMO system is also involved in cancer metastasis. In this review, we will summarize and discuss the possible role of SUMO system in cancer development and metastasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational*
  • Small Ubiquitin-Related Modifier Proteins / metabolism*
  • Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 / metabolism

Substances

  • Small Ubiquitin-Related Modifier Proteins
  • Tumor Suppressor Protein p53