Can E2F Transcription Factors be Targeted for Cancer Therapy?
Given their pivotal role in cancer, E2F transcription factors are attractive targets for cancer therapy. Strategies to inhibit E2F activity include the use of small molecule inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and RNA interference. For example, CDK inhibitors can prevent the phosphorylation of pRb, thereby maintaining its inhibitory interaction with E2F. However, targeting E2F factors is challenging due to their dual roles and interactions with multiple pathways. Ongoing research aims to develop more specific and effective therapeutic approaches.
