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Ribosomal Proteins and Human Diseases: Pathogenesis, Molecular Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Implications
Author(s) -
Wang Wei,
Nag Subhasree,
Zhang Xu,
Wang MingHai,
Wang Hui,
Zhou Jianwei,
Zhang Ruiwen
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
medicinal research reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.868
H-Index - 130
eISSN - 1098-1128
pISSN - 0198-6325
DOI - 10.1002/med.21327
Subject(s) - ribosome biogenesis , biology , ribosome , ribosomal protein , microbiology and biotechnology , dna repair , biogenesis , translation (biology) , computational biology , genetics , gene , rna , messenger rna
Abstract Ribosomes are essential components of the protein synthesis machinery. The process of ribosome biogenesis is well organized and tightly regulated. Recent studies have shown that ribosomal proteins (RPs) have extraribosomal functions that are involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, DNA repair, and other cellular processes. The dysfunction of RPs has been linked to the development and progression of hematological, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Perturbation of ribosome biogenesis results in ribosomal stress, which triggers activation of the p53 signaling pathway through RPs–MDM2 interactions, resulting in p53‐dependent cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. RPs also regulate cellular functions through p53‐independent mechanisms. We herein review the recent advances in several forefronts of RP research, including the understanding of their biological features and roles in regulating cellular functions, maintaining cell homeostasis, and their involvement in the pathogenesis of human diseases. We also highlight the translational potential of this research for the identification of molecular biomarkers, and in the discovery and development of novel treatments for human diseases.