Large ribosomal subunit protein uL14 (RPL23)

Large ribosomal subunit protein uL14 (RPL23) is a cytoplasmic ribosomal protein that is a structural component of the 60S ribosomal subunit, a core assembly responsible for eukaryotic protein synthesis. RPL23 also binds the 23S/26S ribosomal RNA. Beyond its canonical function in translation, RPL23 has specialized regulatory roles in cellular stress responses — particularly in stabilizing the p53 tumor suppressor by binding and inhibiting MDM2, thus preventing p53 ubiquitination and degradation. This adjunct function links RPL23 to cell cycle control, apoptosis inhibition, and multidrug resistance mechanisms, especially observed in various cancer cells and hematological malignancies. Its expression correlates with disease progression and therapeutic response, making RPL23 both a potential biomarker and a candidate for experimental gene therapy strategies. There are currently no direct small molecule drugs targeting RPL23, and manipulation of this protein poses significant safety concerns due to its essential cellular roles.

Other names

60S ribosomal protein L2360S ribosomal protein L17ribosomal protein L23ribosomal protein L17rpL17uL14RL23L23L17RL23aRpl17a

Gene therapy approaches: Adenoviral delivery/co-expression of RPL23 with p53 to enhance tumor suppressor response. Chemotherapy modulation: Altered RPL23 expression impacts apoptotic pathways and cell cycle, contributing to multidrug resistance and resistance to apoptosis-inducing agents.