Reshaping cancer cell plasticity by P-body dynamics and protein translation

Processing bodies (P-bodies) are membrane-less organelles composed of condensed mRNAs and proteins that play essential role in mRNAs decay and storage, contributing to the translational control of cellular proteostasis. Regulation of P-body assembly/disassembly by signaling events, cellular stress or specific environmental conditions shapes the rate of RNA turnover and protein synthesis, controlling cell growth, differentiation and survival. Deregulation of protein translation is an important factor for tumor development and progression and cancer cells benefit from P-bodies to reshape their proteome to support specific metabolic needs and promote tumor development, progression and metastasis. Hence, understanding the composition and the regulation of P-bodies, both under physiological and pathological conditions, will define the mechanisms underlying cancer cell plasticity and develop novel therapeutic strategies to inhibit cancer growth and metastasis. Here, we will discuss the principal mechanisms of P-body regulation and function, with special focus on the role of these ribonucleoprotein condensates in cancer.