Ufc1, short for ubiquitin-fold modifier conjugating enzyme 1, is involved in the ufmylation process, a post-translational modification crucial for various cellular processes such as DNA damage response, protein translation, and ER homeostasis. Ufc1 functions as an E2 enzyme in the three-enzyme cascade (E1-E2-E3) required for UFM1 attachment to target proteins [1,2].

In cancer research, lncRNA UFC1 has been found to act as an oncogene. In non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), its up-regulation promotes tumor progression by binding to EZH2 and epigenetically silencing PTEN expression [3]. In renal cell carcinoma, it stimulates EZH2-induced inhibition of APC expression, aggravating carcinogenesis [4]. Also, serum lncRNA-UFC1 might serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of pancreatic cancer [5]. In addition, knockdown of linc-UFC1 suppresses proliferation and induces apoptosis in colorectal cancer, and lncRNA UFC1 promotes proliferation and migration in breast cancer via the miR-34a/CXCL10 axis [6,7].

In conclusion, Ufc1 plays essential roles in both normal cellular ufmylation processes and in cancer development. The findings from studies on lncRNA UFC1 in different cancers highlight its potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target, contributing to a better understanding of cancer mechanisms.