Possibility to therapeutically exploit RGPR-p117 as a target in cancer cells.

Abstract

Introduction: RGPR-p117 was identified as a transcription factor that binds to the TTGGC(N)₆CC sequence in the promoter region of the regucalcin gene, a tumor suppressor. This article discusses the therapeutic potential of targeting RGPR-p117 in cancer cells.

Area covered: The cytoplasmic RGPR-p117 moves into the nucleus of cells. Once there, it enhances the transcription of several genes containing a TTGGC motif. Overexpression of RGPR-p117 suppresses the proliferation of cancerous cells and decreases the expression levels of proteins that promote their growth, such as Ras, PI3K, Akt, MAPK, and mTOR. It increases the tumor suppressors p53, Rb, and p21. RGPR-p117 also enhances the regucalcin gene expression, which can prevent and treat carcinogenesis. Increasing RGPR-p117 transcription activity may be a promising approach for gene therapy in cancer cells.

Expert opinion: Developing novel therapeutic agents that target the RGPR-p117 gene and applying gene therapy are significant and novel cancer treatment strategies. Targeting the RGPR-p117 nuclear translocation pathway may be a new way to suppress cancer. RGPR-p117 shows promise as an effective cancer therapy. However, all of these findings are from in vitro studies. Further in vivo studies and clinical trials are needed, as are solutions to problems, including cancer burden and the need for new targets.