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Pituitary tumor transforming gene: an update
1Cedars-Sinai Research Institute, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
Frontiers of Hormone Research
|July 30, 2004
Summary
The pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG) is an oncogene involved in pituitary tumors and angiogenesis. PTTG also plays critical roles in cell growth and metabolism, but its switch to oncogenic behavior requires further study.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- The pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG) is implicated in pituitary tumor development.
- Elevated levels of PTTG-binding factor, fibroblast growth factor 2, and vascular endothelial growth factor are observed in pituitary tumors, correlating with PTTG levels.
- PTTG plays a role in angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize recent advances in understanding the PTTG oncogene.
- To elucidate the dual role of PTTG in oncogenesis and physiological functions.
- To identify factors that trigger the switch from physiological function to oncogenic behavior.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical studies and PTTG-null mouse models.
- Analysis of PTTG's role in cell division, DNA damage response, and metabolic functions.
- Correlation of PTTG levels with tumor markers and angiogenesis factors.
Main Results:
- PTTG overexpression disrupts mitosis, causes aneuploidy, and modulates p53 activity.
- PTTG-null mice display cell growth abnormalities, including diabetes mellitus due to defective beta-cell proliferation.
- PTTG is confirmed as an oncogene in pituitary tumors and other neoplasms, and is involved in metabolic functions.
Conclusions:
- PTTG functions as an oncogene in pituitary tumors and is involved in angiogenesis.
- PTTG is essential for normal physiological functions, including cell growth and metabolism.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of PTTG's oncogenic and physiological roles and the conditions that trigger its oncogenic switch.