Cyclic AMP-regulatory element-binding protein: a novel UV-targeted transcription factor in skin cancer

Common therapeutics in relation to melanoma and non-melanoma cancers include the use of kinase inhibitors. The long-term benefits of kinases, however, are limited by development of drug resistance. An alternative approach for treatment would be to focus on transcription factors. Cyclic AMP-regulatory element-binding protein (CREB) is a transcription factor that is commonly overactivated or overexpressed in many different cancers including skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation (UVR), one of the main causes of skin cancer, can activate CREB in both melanocytes and keratinocytes. In addition, CREB has been found to be activated in skin cancers. Considering the prominent role that CREB plays in skin cancers, the studies reviewed herein raise the possibility of CREB as a potential prognostic and diagnostic marker of skin cancer and a novel target for therapeutic intervention.