Eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF4G2 opens novel paths for protein synthesis in development, apoptosis and cell differentiation

Protein translation is a critical regulatory event involved in nearly all physiological and pathological processes. Eukaryotic translation initiation factors are dedicated to translation initiation, the most highly regulated stage of protein synthesis. Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4G2 (eIF4G2, also called p97, NAT1 and DAP5), an eIF4G family member that lacks the binding sites for 5 ' cap binding protein eIF4E, is widely considered to be a key factor for internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs)-mediated cap-independent translation. However, recent findings demonstrate that eIF4G2 also supports many other translation initiation pathways. In this review, we summarize the role of eIF4G2 in a variety of cap-independent and -dependent translation initiation events. Additionally, we also update recent findings regarding the role of eIF4G2 in apoptosis, cell survival, cell differentiation and embryonic development. These studies reveal an emerging new picture of how eIF4G2 utilizes diverse translational mechanisms to regulate gene expression.

Automated summary

Protein translation is a critical regulatory event involved in various physiological and pathological processes. The eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4G2 (eIF4G2) is important for cap-independent translation initiation via internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs), but recent findings suggest that it plays a role in other translation initiation pathways as well. This review summarizes the role of eIF4G2 in different translation initiation events and its involvement in apoptosis, cell survival, cell differentiation, and embryonic development.