RPL36A activates ERK pathway and promotes colorectal cancer growth

Ribosomal protein L36A (RPL36A) was one of the most upregulated proteins in colorectal cancer (CRC), yet its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains largely unexplored, with limited studies investigating its expression and biological functions. In this investigation, we confirmed a marked upregulation of RPL36A in CRC tissues, correlating with an adverse prognosis. Silencing RPL36A markedly attenuated CRC cell malignant properties and tumor xenograft growth. Further mechanistic analysis indicated that RPL36A depletion diminished phosphorylated ERK levels, subsequently impacting the expression of c-Myc and ELK1, key downstream effectors in the MAPK/ERK pathway. Notably, the tumor-suppressive effects of RPL36A knockdown could be negated by an ERK activator. Collectively, our findings underscore the oncogenic function of RPL36A in CRC and propose it as a potential target for therapeutic intervention.