EIF4A1

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A1 (EIF4A1), also called eIF4A-1 or DDX2A, is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase of the DEAD-box family. As a core component of the eIF4F complex, it unwinds secondary structures in the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of mRNAs, facilitating ribosome binding and translation initiation.
EIF4A1 is regulated by the mTOR pathway, and its overexpression drives tumorigenesis in breast, lung, and colorectal cancers by promoting translation of oncogenic mRNAs (e.g., c-Myc). Preclinical inhibitors like silvestrol target its helicase activity, suppressing tumor growth by reducing oncoprotein synthesis, making it a key therapeutic candidate for cancer treatment.