ATAD3A on the path to cancer

Abstract

The ATPase family AAA-domain containing protein 3A (ATAD3A), a nuclear-encoded mitochondrial enzyme, is involved in diverse cellular processes, including mitochondrial dynamics, cell death and cholesterol metabolism. Overexpression and/or mutation of the ATAD3A gene have been observed in different types of cancer, associated with cancer development and progression. The dysregulated ATAD3A acts as a broker of a mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum connection in cancer cells, and inhibition of this enzyme leads to tumor repression and enhanced sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation. As such, ATAD3A is a promising drug target in cancer treatment.