CAPRIN-1: molecular functions, oncogenic impact and emerging roles in the immune system

Abstract

Cell cycle-associated protein 1 (CAPRIN-1) is an RNA-binding protein involved in multiple cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation and stress responses. It exerts its functions by regulating the stability and translation of specific messenger RNAs as well as by promoting stress granule formation. Emerging evidence suggests that CAPRIN-1 plays a role in immune regulation, particularly through modulation of interferon-related transcripts and stress granule dynamics, which may influence immune surveillance. Recent studies have demonstrated that CAPRIN-1 dysregulation is associated with several cancers, including breast, liver and colorectal malignancies. Its overexpression in tumours enhances metastasis, cell growth and resistance to therapy. Moreover, CAPRIN-1 has been identified on the surface of cancer cells, highlighting its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target. Despite these advances, the precise oncogenic mechanisms and signaling pathways linking CAPRIN-1 to tumour progression and tumour immunity remain incompletely understood. This review summarizes the molecular functions of CAPRIN-1, its oncogenic roles and its emerging involvement in the tumour microenvironment, with a particular focus on its potential as a target for cancer immunotherapy.