Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit A (EIF3A)

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit A (EIF3A) is the largest component of the multi-protein eIF3 complex, which orchestrates multiple steps in the initiation of eukaryotic translation. EIF3A directly contacts the 40S ribosomal subunit, guiding the assembly of the pre-initiation complex (PIC), and is essential for mRNA recruitment and ribosome scanning for start codon selection. The HLH (helix-loop-helix) motif of EIF3A is critically involved in RNA binding, particularly in the translation of specific cellular and viral transcripts, including oncogenes such as MYC, PRL3, and MET, making it relevant for cancer biology and viral pathogenesis. Beyond translation, EIF3A influences cellular stress response (notably through stress granule formation), DNA repair, lipid metabolism, and immune signaling pathways, impacting tissue phenotype and disease states such as cancer, infection, inflammation, and metabolic disturbances. Experimental evidence indicates EIF3A as a potential therapeutic target in cancer and infection, though no selective drugs are approved to target this factor directly.

Other names

eIF3aeIF3-thetaeIF3-p170EIF3S10KIAA0139TIF32Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit 10cytoplasmic protein p167centrosomin homologeIF3 p167eIF3 p180eIF3 p185P167p180 subuniteIF-3-thetaeukaryotic translation initiation factor 3, subunit 10 (theta, 150/170kD)eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3, subunit 10 (theta, 170kD)eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3, subunit 10 theta, 150/170kDaeukaryotic translation initiation factor 3, subunit 10, 170kD

Modulation of translation initiation, especially of oncogenic mRNAs via HLH motif. Enhancement of DNA damage response (chemotherapy sensitization). Influence on stress granule formation and cancer cell survival under therapy-induced stress. No direct inhibitor mechanism described for clinical drugs.