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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
07:43

Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas

Published on: January 17, 2018

[Molecular basis of pituitary adenomas with emphasis on somatotropinomas]

Ines Donangelo1, Mônica Gadelha

  • 1Serviço de Endocrinologia, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ.

Arquivos Brasileiros De Endocrinologia E Metabologia
|March 12, 2005
PubMed

Insights

This review explores the molecular underpinnings of pituitary adenomas, focusing on growth hormone-secreting tumors (somatotropinomas). Understanding genetic mutations in tumor suppressor and oncogenes aids in predicting tumor behavior and guiding treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Pituitary adenomas are common tumors.
  • Growth hormone-secreting tumors (somatotropinomas) are a significant subtype.
  • Understanding the molecular basis is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the molecular mechanisms underlying pituitary adenoma development.
  • To emphasize the genetic factors in somatotropinomas.
  • To discuss the role of specific genes in tumorigenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of molecular genetics studies.
  • Analysis of tumor suppressor genes (e.g., RB1, MEN-1).
  • Examination of oncogenes (e.g., gsp, PTTG).

Main Results:

  • Identified key tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes involved in pituitary adenoma pathogenesis.
  • Highlighted the roles of RB1, MEN-1, gsp, and PTTG.
  • Emphasized the potential of molecular markers for predicting tumor behavior.

Conclusions:

  • Molecular characterization of pituitary adenomas, particularly somatotropinomas, offers insights into tumor behavior.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the complete sequence of genetic abnormalities in pituitary adenoma pathogenesis.
  • Understanding these genetic alterations may improve therapeutic strategies.

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