Abstract: The ribosome composed of ribosomal RNA and ribosomal proteins is well documented to be an important organelle for protein synthesis. Ribosomal proteins play crucial roles in protein translation. The dysregulation of ribosomal proteins and ribosomal RNA expression activates ribosomal proteins′ extraribosomal functions which is believed to play important roles in the tumorigenesis. It is possible that ribosomal proteins may serve as biomarkers or promising targets for the early diagonosis and therapy of tumor diseases.

Key words: Neoplasms, Ribosomal proteins