HPV E6 induces eIF4E transcription to promote the proliferation and migration of cervical cancer

► The transcription of eIF4E is induced by HPV E6. ► The over-expression of eIF4E in cervical tumors and cell lines is confirmed. ► eIF4E emerges as a key node and a potential target for CC treatment and prevention. Increasing evidence has placed eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) at the hub of tumor development and progression. Several studies have reported that eIF4E is over-expressed in cervical cancer; however, the mechanism remains elusive. The results of this study further confirm over-expression of eIF4E in cervical cancer tumors and cell lines, and we have discovered that the transcription of eIF4E is induced by protein E6 of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Moreover, regulation of eIF4E by E6 significantly influences cell proliferation, the cell cycle, migration, and apoptosis. Therefore, eIF4E emerges as a key player in tumor development and progression and a potential target for CC treatment and prevention.