Multifaceted regulatory mechanisms of the EGR family in tumours and prospects for therapeutic applications (Review).

The early growth response (EGR) family comprises four zinc finger transcription factors: EGR1, EGR2, EGR3 and EGR4. These transcription factors belong to the Cys‑His‑type zinc finger protein family and are essential in cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis and stress response. Initially, EGR1 was recognised for its essential regulatory role in tumourigenesis. Recent studies have identified similarities between other members of the EGR family and EGR1 in tumour regulation and the multifaceted regulatory mechanism employed by the EGR family to affect tumours. Therefore, the present review describes the dual roles of the EGR family in tumours and their regulatory mechanisms in immunity, metabolism and differentiation. Additionally, the present review offers a new perspective on relevant tumour therapeutic studies based on current EGR targeting.