Roles of eEF-2 kinase in cancer

Objective To provide a summary of the relationship between the eEF-2/eEF-2 kinase pathway and each phase of malignant neoplasms. The specific importance of this relationship in understanding and treating cancer was also explored. Data sources The data used in this review were mainly obtained from the articles listed in HighWire and PubMed in English. The search terms were "eEF-2 kinase", "oncogenesis", and "tumor progression". Study selection This review relates the observation that the overexpression of eEF-2 kinase is seen in cancer, and highlights that it has emerged as promoting the development of many malignant phenotypes when unregulated. This includes increasing the replicative potential of cells, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, and evasion of apoptosis. Results eEF-2 kinase is a structurally and functionally unique protein kinase. The increased activity of this protein in cancer cells is a protective mechanism to allow tumor growth and evolution, and resist cell death through the eEF-2/eEF-2 kinase pathway, but it also makes a potential target for therapy. Conclusion eEF-2 kinase fills critical niches in the life of a cancer cell and the eEF-2/eEF-2 kinase pathway is a key biochemical sensor.