NOB1 is a newly found gene regulating the function of the 26S proteasome, cell cycle and gene transcription.NOB1 contains a zinc ribbon domain and a PIN domain. Recent studies have indicated that the PIN domain is related to gene transcription and the zinc ribbon domain plays an important role in regulating cell cycle. It has also been found that NOB1 is closely associated with development and progression of gastric, esophageal, and ovarian cancer. The paper reviews the role of NOB1 in the development and progression of tumors.