Proto-oncogene c-Jun protein (c-Jun)

Proto-oncogene c-Jun protein (c-Jun) is a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor and key component of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) complex. It regulates gene transcription in response to diverse extracellular stimuli, including growth factors, cytokines, cellular stress, and UV irradiation[1][2][3][7]. c-Jun forms homo- and heterodimers, most notably with Fos family proteins, to bind specific DNA sequences (AP-1 sites) and modulate genes involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation[1][3][4][6]. It is tightly controlled through phosphorylation by c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs), linking it directly to key stress- and mitogen-activated pathways, with documented roles in oncogenesis and metabolic reprogramming in cancer[7][9]. c-Jun's frequent overactivity or dysregulation is implicated in numerous diseases, especially various cancers, making it a therapeutic target of major interest in cancer biology[1][9].

Other names

Jun proto-oncogeneAP-1 transcription factor subunitAP-1P39v-Jun avian sarcoma virus 17 oncogene homolog

Inhibition of upstream kinases (e.g., JNK) leads to decreased c-Jun activation/phosphorylation and transcriptional activity[8]. Targeting downstream metabolic pathways regulated by c-Jun, such as glutaminase inhibition, may selectively affect c-Jun-dependent tumors[9].