Eif3a, the largest subunit of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3), is a key player in all steps of translation initiation [2]. It is involved in numerous cellular, physiological, and pathological processes, and is emerging as a potential anticancer drug target [2]. eIF3a is associated with pathways like PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β -catenin, and is involved in processes such as nutrient stress response [1,3,4].

In KO mouse models, eIF3a was found to be essential for life sustenance, with abnormal tissue pathology in the lungs, fat, skin, spleen, and thymus [5]. Bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed proteins in eIF3a knockout mice revealed its broad functions in cellular signaling, immune response, metabolism, and more [5]. In cancer, silencing eIF3a in CRC cells significantly inhibited malignancy and tumor growth, while overexpression promoted these behaviors, with a positive correlation to PI3K/AKT activation [1]. In colon tumorigenesis, eIF3a knockdown inhibited APC mutation-induced spontaneous colon tumorigenesis in APCmin/+ mice [4].

In conclusion, eIF3a is crucial for translation initiation and participates in diverse biological processes. Its study through KO mouse models has revealed its significance in cancer, such as in colorectal and colon cancer, highlighting its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target in these disease areas.