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Gli genes in development and cancer

M P Matise1, A L Joyner

  • 1Developmental Genetics Program and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, NYU School of Medicine, NY 10016, USA.

Oncogene
|January 12, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Cancer often involves reactivated developmental pathways, particularly the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling cascade. This pathway

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Biology
  • Cancer Biology
  • Molecular Signaling

Background:

  • Cancer involves inappropriate activation of developmental genetic pathways.
  • The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is crucial in development and implicated in cancer.
  • Hedgehog signaling regulates gene expression via transcription factors like Cubitus interruptus (Ci) and Gli.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling in vertebrate development and cancer.
  • To discuss the function of Gli proteins as transcription factors downstream of Hh signaling.
  • To review models of Gli protein-mediated Hh signaling.

Main Methods:

  • Genetic and biochemical studies in Drosophila.
  • Analysis of Hh pathway genes, including Gli.
  • Investigation of protein modifications affecting transcription factor activity.

Main Results:

  • Hedgehog (Hh) signaling involves a cascade regulating gene expression.
  • Ci in flies and Gli in vertebrates are key transcription factors downstream of Hh.
  • Mutations in Hh pathway genes, including Gli, are linked to human developmental disorders and cancers.

Conclusions:

  • Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathways are critical for both normal development and cancer.
  • Gli proteins are central mediators of Hh signaling in vertebrates.
  • Understanding Hh/Gli signaling is vital for addressing developmental disorders and cancers.

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