Regulation of Selective Proteolysis in Cancer

Proteins are the fundamental building blocks of cells for diverse cellular and physiological functions. The dynamic equilibrium of protein turnover is balanced by protein synthesis and proteolysis. The newly synthesized proteins undergo proper folding into the three-dimensional conformations for executing biological functions and constructing cellular components like organelles. On the other hand, ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and lysosome are two major proteolytic systems by which the unneeded, misfolded, or damaged proteins are selectively sent for clearance to maintain the quality and quantity of cellular proteins. Loss of the ability to maintain cellular proteolysis in control has been known to contribute as disease-causing factors. In this chapter, the function, regulation, and pathological roles of dysregulated proteolysis will be described in a concise view, focusing on the link between cancer and UPS