SENP1: A perspective from immune cells to disease (Review).

Abstract

Small ubiquitin‑like modifier (SUMO) is a ubiquitin‑like protein that modifies target proteins across various eukaryotic subcellular structures. This process, known as SUMOylation, has been established as an essential regulatory mechanism that affects both the activity and positioning of proteins, maintaining cellular homeostasis. SUMOylation and deSUMOylation are reversible post‑translational modification processes mediated by SUMO proteins and SUMO/sentrin‑specific proteases (SENPs). The human SENP family comprises six members, each characterized by unique cellular localization and substrate specificity. The present review primarily summarizes the role and mechanisms of SENP1 in the development and maturation of immune cells, including lymphocytes, macrophages and erythrocytes, as well as its involvement in tumor cell invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis and resistance to pharmacological therapies. In addition, the introduction of SENP1 inhibitors as a therapeutic approach for cancer treatment is explored. Overall, the present study aimed to offer theoretical insights into cancer therapy strategies that target SENP1.