PICH, A protein that maintains genomic stability, can promote tumor growth

Abstract

Genomic instability is regarded as a hallmark of cancer cells. It can be presented in many ways, among which chromosome instability has received attention. Ultrafine anaphase bridges  are a type of chromatin bridges, the untimely resolution of which can also lead to chromosome instability. PICH can play a role in maintaining chromosome stability by regulating chromosome morphology and resolving ultrafine anaphase bridges. Recently, PICH has been found to be overexpressed in various cancers. Overexpression of PICH is related to the proliferation of tumors and poor prognosis. In this article, we consider that PICH can maintain genomic stability by regulating appropriate chromosome structure, ensuring proper chromosome segregation, and facilitating replication fork reversal. We summarize how PICH regulates chromosome stability, how PICH resolves Ultrafine anaphase bridges with other proteins, and how PICH promotes tumor progression.