Modulation and function of Pumilio proteins in cancer

Post-transcriptional regulation is involved in tumorigenesis, and in this control, RNA-binding proteins are the main protagonists. Pumilio proteins are highly conserved RNA-binding proteins that regulate many aspects of RNA processing. The dysregulation of Pumilio expression is associated with different types of cancer. This review summarizes the roles of Pumilio 1 and Pumilio 2 in cancer and discusses the factors that account for their distinct biological functions. Pumilio levels seem to be related to tumor progression and poor prognoses in some kinds of tumors, such as lung, pancreatic, prostate, and cervical cancers. Pumilio 1 is associated with cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion, and so is Pumilio 2, although there are contradictory reports regarding the latter. Furthermore, the circular RNA, circPUM1, has been described as a miRNAs sponge, regulating miRNA involved in the cell cycle. The expression and function of Pumilio proteins depend on the fine adjustment of a set of modulators, including miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs; this demonstrates that Pumilio plays an important role in tumorigenesis through a variety of regulatory axes.

Automated summary

Post-transcriptional regulation involving RNA-binding proteins such as Pumilio plays an important role in tumorigenesis. Pumilio 1 and Pumilio 2 have distinct roles in cancer, and their dysregulation is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis in certain types of cancer. The expression and function of Pumilio proteins are regulated by a variety of modulators, including miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs.