Targeting RNA-Binding Oncofetal Protein IGF2BP3: Discovery of Potent and Selective Inhibitors

Targeting IGF2BP3 in Cancer: From Molecular Structure and Biology to Early Drug Discovery

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) remain underexplored as small-molecule targets, although their dysregulation contributes to numerous human diseases, including cancer. RBPs are key regulators of post-transcriptional gene expression, controlling multiple stages of RNA metabolism. Among them, insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) is an oncofetal RBP that is highly expressed during embryonic development, largely absent in adult tissues, and re-expressed in multiple malignancies. A growing body of evidence supports IGF2BP3 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker and a potent oncogenic driver across tumor types, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic target. However, the development of effective IGF2BP3-targeting compounds remains in its early stages. In this review, we first describe the structural organization of IGF2BP3, the molecular basis of RNA recognition, and the mechanisms underlying its dysregulation across human cancers. We then discuss emerging therapeutic approaches, including direct inhibition of IGF2BP3–RNA interactions and indirect strategies that rewire IGF2BP3 expression or activity through epigenetic, epitranscriptomic, and signaling pathways. By critically highlighting the opportunities and limitations of these approaches and their impact on cancer progression, we provide an integrated perspective combining structural biology, medicinal chemistry, and cancer biology to support the development of next-generation IGF2BP3-targeted therapies.

Abbapolin inhibitors of the PLK1 PBD as Prostate Cancer Therapeutics, in vivo activity and synergy with androgen therapy

TARGETED PROTEIN DEGRADATION WITH PROTACS IN CANCER THERAPY: MECHANISMS, CLINICAL ADVANCES, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

This thorough analysis investigates the molecular basis of PROTAC technology, tracking its progression from an elegant intellectual notion to a clinically approved treatment platform and provides a detailed survey of the current clinical landscape.

Abstract B089: Targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer through structure-guided discovery of novel malic enzyme inhibitors

These findings establish mitochondrial malic enzymes, particularly ME2/ME3, as tractable metabolic targets for cancer therapy, and provide a strong foundation for rational optimization of potency and isoform selectivity.

RNA-Binding Motif Protein 3 as a Therapeutic and Prognostic Target for Drug Discovery

This comprehensive literature review delves into the multifaceted roles of RNA-binding motif protein 3 (RBM3) in cellular processes, disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic potential. RBM3 has been implicated in shaping cell morphology, synaptic protection in neurodegenerative conditions, and regulating gene expression through binding to specific RNA sequences. In cancer, RBM3 exhibits contrasting effects, influencing cell proliferation, tumorigenic potential, and RNA splicing. Clinical studies suggest RBM3 as a predictive biomarker in chemotherapy response for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Despite promising therapeutic implications in neuroprotection and cancer, challenges persist in understanding the regulatory mechanisms and clinical behavior of RBM3. Further research is warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying RBM3’s diverse functions and its significance as a potential target for personalized medicine in cancer therapy. This review underscores the pivotal role of RBPs, particularly RBM3, in disease progression and highlights the need for continued investigation to harness their therapeutic potential effectively. This review evaluates evidence available through December 2025, with particular emphasis on studies published between 2010 and 2025.

A novel peptide encoded by circTLL1 drives osimertinib resistance in lung cancer by modulating the NT5C2/Ras/PI3K axis.

The identification of the circTLL1-90aa/NT5C2/Ras/PI3K axis not only expands the functional repertoire of the non-coding genome but also provides new insights into the complexity of drug resistance.