Emerging roles of tRNA modification-mediated codon-specific translational reprogramming in cancer biology

Cancer has become a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with alarming increases in incidence and mortality rates. Emerging evidence suggests that tRNA modification enzymes play a crucial role in cancer development by modulating codon-specific translation. In this review, we focus on 18 tRNA modification enzymes and elucidate their mechanisms of action and roles in disease. We highlight the functions and mechanisms of seven tRNA regulators that mediate favorable tRNA translation in tumorigenesis and cancer progression, providing deeper insights into their clinical potential as cancer-related biomarkers and prognostic indicators. These findings emphasize the need for further investigation into the therapeutic potential of tRNA modification enzymes in cancer management and their potential application in personalized cancer therapy and diagnostics.