UBB as an early-stage potential biomarker for breast cancer via modulation of the ubiquitination pathway

Breast cancer ranks second leading cause of cancer related mortality worldwide, emphasizing the need of early diagnosis to improve therapeutic outcomes and disease-free survival. Ubiquitin, a highly conserved protein binds to target proteins to alter their functions, stability, and signaling activity. Multiple ubiquitination forms polyubiquitin chains, which may lead to proteasomal degradation and influence major signaling pathways. In this study, we demonstrate the potential of polyubiquitin B (UBB) as a promising biomarker for early stage breast cancer. We investigated the expression of UBB and ubiquitination pathway associated proteins in female breast cancer patients. Label free quantitative proteomic analysis revealed differentially expressed proteins, followed by network based analysis that identified key hub proteins. Furthermore, quantitative gene expression of hub proteins and other regulators of ubiquitination, demonstrated their alterations in breast cancer. Elevated expression of UBB was validated using competitive ELISA. Molecular docking between ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (USP2) and ubiquitin (PDB ID: 3NHE) in the presence of ML364 highlights the USP2 as potential drug target. Our findings establish a critical role for UBB and ubiquitination pathway proteins in breast carcinogenesis and disease progression. This study may provide valuable insights into early breast cancer diagnosis and supports the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.