The role of nuclear Y-box binding protein 1 as a global marker in drug resistance

Abstract

Gene expression can be regulated by nuclear factors at the transcriptional level. Many such factors regulate MDR1 gene expression, but what are the sequence elements and transcription factors that control the basal and inducible expression of this gene? The general principles through which transcription factors participate in drug resistance are now beginning to be understood. Here, we review the factors involved in the transcriptional regulation of the MDR1 gene. In particular, we focus on the transcription factor Y-box binding protein 1 and discuss the possible links between Y-box binding protein 1 expression and drug resistance in cancer, which are mediated by the transmembrane P-glycoprotein or non-P-glycoprotein.