Multifaceted roles of insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 2 in human cancer (Review)

Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) is an RNA binding protein that functions as an N6-methyladenosine reader. It regulates various biological processes in human cancers by affecting the stability and expression of target RNA transcripts, including coding RNAs and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Numerous studies have shown that IGF2BP2 expression is aberrantly increased in various types of cancer and plays multifaceted roles in the development and progression of human cancers. In the present review, the clinical importance of IGF2BP2 is summarized and its involvement in the regulation of biological processes, including proliferation, metastasis, chemoresistance, metabolism, tumor immunity, stemness and cell death, in human cancers is discussed. The chemical compounds that have been developed as IGF2BP2 inhibitors are also detailed. As ncRNAs are now important potential therapeutic agents for cancer treatment, the microRNAs that have been reported to directly target and inhibit IGF2BP2 expression in cancers are also described. In summary, by reviewing the latest literature, the present study aimed to highlight the clinical importance and physiological functions of IGF2BP2 in human cancer, with a focus on the great potential of IGF2BP2 as a target for inhibitor development. The present review may inspire new ideas for future studies on IGF2BP2, which may serve as a specific therapeutic target in cancer.