The importin system, principally composed of importin α and importin β, is a key mediator of nuclear import. Importin α acts as an adaptor that recognizes classical nuclear localization signals (NLS) on cargo proteins, while importin β interacts with the nuclear pore complex to facilitate import into the nucleus.
Importin α and β are central mediators of nuclear import, regulating the localization and function of proteins critical for cell proliferation, survival, and DNA repair. In cancer, dysregulation of importin α/β expression or activity can facilitate oncogenic signaling by altering the nuclear transport of growth-promoting or survival factors. Various cancers—including breast, prostate, colorectal, NSCLC, and certain hematologic malignancies—have shown altered importin expression patterns that are often associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and poorer prognostic outcomes.
Recent research is exploring inhibitors that target the importin β pathway. Such inhibitors aim to disrupt the nuclear import of oncogenic signals, thereby sensitizing cancer cells to other treatments.
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