Rrp1b, also known as ribosomal RNA processing1 homolog B, is a novel candidate metastasis modifier gene. It physically and functionally interacts with SIPA1, reducing tumor growth and metastatic potential. It also modulates extracellular matrix (ECM) genes associated with tumor suppression, and is involved in ribosome biogenesis by targeting protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) to nucleoli and associating with Pre-60S ribosomal subunits [1,2,4].

Functional gene assays and in vitro experiments have shown that Rrp1b can significantly alter ECM gene expression, tumor growth, and dissemination in metastasis assays. Knockdown of Rrp1b induced a significant change in isoform expression in over 600 genes, affecting cell cycle and checkpoint regulation. Additionally, constitutional polymorphism within RRP1B was found to be significantly associated with tumor progression in breast cancer cohorts. In cervical cancer, specific RRP1B single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were associated with clinicopathological features and survival outcomes [1,2,3,5].

In conclusion, Rrp1b is a key gene in regulating metastasis and tumor progression, especially in breast and cervical cancers. Its functions in modulating gene expression, including through alternative splicing and histone methylation, and its role in ribosome biogenesis highlight its importance in cellular processes related to cancer. The study of Rrp1b through genetic models, such as analyzing its polymorphisms, provides valuable insights into cancer development and progression [1-3,5,9].