The SUMOylation and ubiquitination crosstalk in cancer

Abstract

Background: The cancer occurrence and progression are largely affected by the post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins. Currently, it has been shown that the relationship between ubiquitination and SUMOylation is highly complex and interactive. SUMOylation affects the process of ubiquitination and degradation of substrates. Contrarily, SUMOylation-related proteins are also regulated by the ubiquitination process thus altering their protein levels or activity. Emerging evidence suggests that the abnormal regulation between this crosstalk may lead to tumorigenesis.

Purpose: In this review, we have discussed the study of the relationship between ubiquitination and SUMOylation, as well as the possibility of a corresponding application in tumor therapy.

Methods: The relevant literatures from PubMed have been reviewed for this article.

Conclusion: The interaction between ubiquitination and SUMOylation is crucial for the occurrence and development of cancer. A greater understanding of the crosstalk of SUMOylation and ubiquitination may be more conducive to the development of more selective and effective SUMOylation inhibitors, as well as a promotion of synergy with other tumor treatment strategies.

Keywords: Cancer therapy; Crosstalk; SUMOylation; Tumorigenesis; Ubiquitination.