CLK3 promotes tumor proliferation by activating MYC signaling

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, posing a significant public health challenge. Despite advancements in treatment strategies, prognosis for advanced CRC remains poor. Here, we investigate the role of CLK3 and its interaction with the c-Myc signaling pathway in CRC progression. Our study reveals significant overexpression of CLK3 in CRC tumor tissues, correlating with disease advancement, and demonstrates that CLK3 promotes CRC cell proliferation, mediated by its activation of MYC signaling through upregulation of c-MYC expression. In vivo experiments confirm the oncogenic role of CLK3, with its loss resulting in decreased tumor growth and c-MYC expression. These findings highlight CLK3 as a potential therapeutic target in CRC, offering insights into novel treatment strategies.