Cancer therapeutics: Targeting the dark side of Myc

The potent Myc oncoprotein plays a pivotal role as a regulator of tumorigenesis in numerous human cancers of diverse origin. Experimental evidence shows that inhibiting Myc significantly halts tumour cell growth and proliferation. This review summarises recent progress in understanding the function of Myc as a transcription factor, with emphasis on key protein interactions and target gene regulation. In addition, major advances in drug development aimed at eliminating Myc are described, including antisense and triple helix forming oligonucleotides, porphyrins and siRNA. Future anti-Myc strategies are also discussed that inhibit Myc at the level of expression and/or function. Targeting the dark side of Myc with novel therapeutic agents promises to have a profound impact in combating cancer.