The dual role of ribonucleases in tumor-host relationship

Ribonucleases are enzymes that destroy RNA, play an important role in protein synthesis, epigenetic regulation of genetic activity, cell proliferation and apoptosis. Ribonucleases are important antimicrobial, antiviral and immune defense factors. Despite the same biochemical properties, they exhibit unequal, sometimes opposite biological effects. While mostly ribonucleases inhibit cell proliferation, induce apoptosis and inhibit the growth of tumors, some ribonucleases stimulate vascular growth, proliferation and tumor development. RNase inhibitors have an opposite effect. The correct use of these features of RNases can provide additional opportunities for the development of a strategy of targeted influence on tumor growth.