Abstract
In this review, I describe our scientific journey to unearth the impact of RNA metabolism in cancer using the eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF4E as an exemplar. This model allowed us to discover new structural, biochemical, and molecular features of RNA processing, and to reveal their substantial impact on cell physiology. This led us to develop proof-of-principle strategies to target these pathways in cancer patients leading to clinical benefit. I discuss the important role that the un-expected plays in research and the necessity of embracing the data even when it clashes with dogma. I also touch on the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion to the success of the scientific enterprise.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 276-281 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Biochemistry and Cell Biology |
| Volume | 100 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Aug 2022 |
Funding
The author is grateful for all the financial support from National Institutes of Health (NIH), Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Leukemia and Lymphona Society USA and Canada (LLS), Canada Research Chair, and others over the years.
Keywords
- RNA processing
- acute myeloid leukemia
- cancer
- eIF4E
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology