Ring Finger Protein 7 (RNF7), also known as Sensitive to Apoptosis Gene (SAG), is a highly conserved protein that functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. This protein plays a crucial role in the ubiquitination process, which is a post-translational modification that regulates the degradation of proteins within the cell. RNF7 is involved in various cellular processes, including cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and signal transduction.
RNF7 contains a RING (Really Interesting New Gene) finger domain, which is essential for its function as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. The RING domain facilitates the transfer of ubiquitin from an E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme to the target substrate, marking it for degradation by the proteasome. This process is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis and regulating protein levels within the cell .
Overexpression of RNF7 has been observed in multiple human cancers, including renal cell carcinoma (RCC). In RCC, RNF7 inhibits apoptosis and promotes glycolysis, contributing to tumor growth and progression. The elevated expression of RNF7 in tumor tissues is correlated with poor survival outcomes in patients. RNF7 achieves these effects by activating the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway through the ubiquitination of SOCS1 (Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 1) .
RNF7’s role in cancer is primarily mediated through its function as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. By ubiquitinating specific target proteins, RNF7 can regulate various signaling pathways that control cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism. For example, in RCC, RNF7 promotes tumor growth by inhibiting apoptosis and enhancing glycolysis. This is achieved through the activation of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway, which is a critical regulator of cell survival and proliferation .
Given its role in cancer progression, RNF7 represents a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Inhibiting RNF7’s activity could restore normal cellular processes and reduce tumor growth. Research is ongoing to develop specific inhibitors that can target RNF7 and disrupt its function in cancer cells .