Far upstream element binding protein 1: a commander of transcription, translation and beyond

The far upstream binding protein 1 (FBP1) was first identified as a DNA-binding protein that regulates c-Myc gene transcription through binding to the far upstream element (FUSE) in the promoter region 1.5 kb upstream of the transcription start site. FBP1 collaborates with TFIIH and additional transcription factors for optimal transcription of the c-Myc gene. In recent years, mounting evidence suggests that FBP1 acts as an RNA-binding protein and regulates mRNA translation or stability of genes, such as GAP43, p27(Kip) and nucleophosmin. During retroviral infection, FBP1 binds to and mediates replication of RNA from Hepatitis C and Enterovirus 71. As a nuclear protein, FBP1 may translocate to the cytoplasm in apoptotic cells. The interaction of FBP1 with p38/JTV-1 results in FBP1 ubiquitination and degradation by the proteasomes. Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations by FBP1 contribute to cell proliferation, migration or cell death. FBP1 association with carcinogenesis has been reported in c-Myc dependent or independent manner. This review summarizes biochemical features of FBP1, its mechanism of action, FBP family members and the involvement of FBP1 in carcinogenesis.