Expression, molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potentials of ATF1 in cancers.

Abstract

Activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) is a crucial cellular regulator, with its misregulation implicated in numerous cancers. As a key player in the ATF/CREB family, ATF1 modulates gene expression in response to extracellular signals, significantly impacting cancer progression. This review examines ATF1's structural features, its role in tumorigenesis, and its potential therapeutic applications. Data from various databases consistently show ATF1 overexpression in diverse cancers, associated with poor prognosis and aggressive phenotypes. The review explores ATF1's complex regulatory mechanisms, influencing cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and therapeutic resistance, and its interactions with regulatory networks. Emerging strategies targeting ATF1, such as engineered antibodies, natural compounds, and small molecule inhibitors, show efficacy in preclinical models. ATF1 may also act as a biomarker for personalized therapeutic response and resistance. Future research should focus on ATF1's role in the tumor microenvironment and its interaction with the immune system, potentially leading to new immunotherapeutic strategies. A deeper understanding of ATF1 could enhance cancer treatment and patient outcomes.