Sumoylation of cyclin and its therapeutic potential for cancer

The precision of the cell cycle is essential for organismal development, tissue homeostasis, and the prevention of malignancies. Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) play pivotal roles in regulating cell cycle progression. Recent studies have underscored the importance of post-translational modifications, particularly sumoylation, in modulating the functions of cyclins. Sumoylation profoundly influences the stability, localization, and activity of cyclins D and E, which are crucial for the G1/S transition and DNA replication. Dysregulation of these processes is a hallmark of various cancers, where aberrant sumoylation enhances the oncogenic potential of cyclins. This review examines how sumoylation governs cyclin dynamics, maintains cell division fidelity, and contributes to cancer progression. Moreover, advances in targeting the SUMO pathway offer new therapeutic opportunities for treating cyclin-related malignancies, positioning sumoylation-based strategies as promising tools in precision medicine. Gaining a deeper understanding of how sumoylation regulates cyclins may ultimately transform therapeutic approaches for cyclin-dependent diseases.