Posttranslational Modifications in Thyroid Cancer: Implications for Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Classification, and Treatment

Simple Summary Alterations to human proteins following their production can result in changes to their function. In cancers specifically, these post-translational modifications (PTMs) have implications for the way in which tumors develop and progress. While most of the previous research in thyroid cancer biology has focused on gene expression, several studies have investigated PTMs and their roles in tumorigenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. Here, we review recent studies related to phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, glycosylation, and succinylation in human thyroid cancers. Knowledge of these various protein modifications may help to improve current diagnostics and therapeutics as well as the development of novel treatments for thyroid cancer. There is evidence that posttranslational modifications, including phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, glycosylation, and succinylation, may be involved in thyroid cancer. We review recent reports supporting a role of posttranslational modifications in the tumorigenesis of thyroid cancer, sensitivity to radioiodine and other types of treatment, the identification of molecular treatment targets, and the development of molecular markers that may become useful as diagnostic tools. An increased understanding of posttranslational modifications may be an important supplement to the determination of alterations in gene expression that has gained increasing prominence in recent years.

Automated summary

Alterations to protein function following production can impact tumor development in thyroid cancer. Research on post-translational modifications may improve diagnostics, treatment, and development of novel therapies for thyroid cancer.