The regulatory mechanisms and clinical translation potential of RNA-binding protein RALY in tumors

The RNA-binding protein RALY is an important member of the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs). It can target and regulate the key links of the RNA metabolic networks, such as RNA alternative splicing and stability maintenance, and is deeply involved in biological processes such as cell proliferation, metabolic reprogramming, and exosome biogenesis. RALY functions as a core regulator in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. In recent years, studies on RALY in cancer have been increasing. It is abnormally highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and other tumors. Emerging evidence suggests its oncogenic functions, multiple regulatory mechanisms, and potential clinical translational value, providing a candidate target for tumor precision therapy. At the mechanism level, RALY mainly plays a role in promoting cancer by regulating the three core methods of target gene alternative splicing, post-translational modifications (PTMs) of itself (ubiquitination, glycosylation, etc.), and mediating tumor metabolic reprogramming, thereby driving malignant biological behaviors such as tumor cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. At the clinical level, high RALY expression is associated with poor patient prognosis, indicating that it may serve as a promising candidate prognostic marker. This article reviews the molecular structure and core functions of RALY, focuses on its regulatory mechanisms and clinical significance in various tumors, and discusses the prospects and challenges of targeting RALY so as to provide theoretical support and direction for basic research and clinical translation of RALY-related tumors.