Exportin-1 discovery may improve leukemia treatments

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new function of a protein called Exportin-1, which is present in the cell nuclei of all living organisms. In addition to its role in exporting materials from the nucleus, Exportin-1 may also help promote gene expression by facilitating the process of transcription, where RNA is created from DNA. The study shows that Exportin-1 links transcription factors, which regulate gene expression, to the nuclear pore complex. This structure allows molecules to enter and exit the nucleus. By connecting these elements, Exportin-1 helps move genes closer to the nuclear edge, enhancing their expression. Professor Jason Brickner, who led the study, noted that Exportin-1 is often overexpressed in cancers like leukemia. This finding might explain how cancer growth is promoted by increasing the expression of certain genes. Brickner's research spans 20 years and has primarily focused on yeast, a useful model organism for studying similar processes in more complex eukaryotic cells. The research team used various advanced methods to explore Exportin-1's functions. The results could help scientists develop new cancer treatments that target gene expression without harming healthy cells. Currently, some therapies inhibit Exportin-1, but they can cause significant side effects because they disrupt all nuclear exports, a vital cell function. Understanding Exportin-1's dual role opens the door to better treatments. Researchers aim to confirm whether its interactions are consistent across different species and clarify the details of these molecular connections before pursuing drug development.