Increased polyamine levels are coupled with increased cell proliferation, decreased apoptosis and increased expression of genes associated with tumor invasion and metastasis, thus making their metabolism a target for cancer treatment and prevention.

What are polyamine levels?

Abstract. Polyamines are polycations that interact with negatively charged molecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins. They play multiple roles in cell growth, survival and proliferation. Changes in polyamine levels have been associated with aging and diseases.

What is polyamine metabolism?

Polyamine metabolism has been linked to protein synthesis through the unique posttranslational modification of the universal translation factor EIF5A. EIF5A is an essential gene that encodes a protein that is approximately 17 kDa in size and is conserved among eukaryotes and archaebacteria [97].