Abstract: YB1 is a multifunctional protein participating in a wide variety of cellular processes. In fact, YB1 plays a critical role in the occurrence and development of tumors. Many previous studies indicate that the expression of YB1 is significantly elevated in tumors and correlated to the poor outcome and reoccurrence of tumors. In recent years, further studies continue to focus on the biological functions of YB1 on tumors, such as tumor proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, chemical drug resistance, while some other regulatory mechanism of YB1 on tumor stem cells and inflammation have been investigated in depth. In this paper, we aim to review the recent advances in the functions of YB1 in tumorigenesis and tumor progression.