FAS-associated factor 1 (FAF1): diverse functions and implications for oncogenesis

Cell Cycle. 2009 Aug 15;8(16):2528-34. doi: 10.4161/cc.8.16.9280. Epub 2009 Aug 16.

Abstract

FAS-associated factor 1, FAF1, is an evolutionarily conserved protein that has several protein interaction domains. Although FAF1 was initially identified as a member of the FAS death-inducing signaling complex, subsequent work has revealed that FAF1 functions in diverse biological processes. FAF1 has been shown to play an important role in normal development and neuronal cell survival, whereas FAF1 downregulation may contribute to multiple aspects of tumorigenesis. In particular, there is compelling evidence implicating FAF1 as a tumor suppressor involved in the regulation of apoptosis and NFkappaB activity, as well as in ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Here, we highlight FAF1's role in NFkappaB signaling and postulate that this pathway has critical connotations for the pathogenesis and treatment of human cancers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / genetics
  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Carrier Proteins / genetics
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism
  • Carrier Proteins / physiology
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Mesothelioma / genetics
  • Mesothelioma / metabolism
  • Mesothelioma / pathology
  • Mice
  • Models, Biological
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Phosphorylation

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Carrier Proteins
  • FAF1 protein, human
  • Faf1 protein, mouse
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins