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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
09:37
Defining Gene Functions in Tumorigenesis by Ex vivo Ablation of Floxed Alleles in Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor Cells
Published on: August 25, 2021
WWOX: its genomics, partners, and functions.
Sara Del Mare1, Zaidoun Salah, Rami I Aqeilan
1The Lautenberg Center for General and Tumor Immunology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
Journal of Cellular Biochemistry
|August 27, 2009
Summary
The WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) protein acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting cancer-promoting transcription factors. WWOX gene deletion in mice increases tumor incidence, confirming its vital role in preventing cancer.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- The WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) gene is located at FRA16D, a common fragile site frequently altered in cancer.
- WWOX encodes a protein with WW domains and a short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) domain, crucial for protein interactions and cellular functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding WWOX's biological and pathological functions.
- To highlight WWOX's role as a tumor suppressor and its involvement in cellular processes like growth, differentiation, and apoptosis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of WWOX protein interactions via its WW domains.
- Investigation of WWOX's effect on transcription factor activity.
- Examination of tumor incidence in WWOX-deficient mouse models.
Main Results:
- WWOX suppresses the transactivation of oncogenic transcription factors by cytoplasmic sequestration.
- WWOX plays a role in cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and acts as a bona fide tumor suppressor.
- WWOX-deficient mice exhibit increased tumor susceptibility, validating its in vivo functions.
Conclusions:
- WWOX is a critical tumor suppressor involved in multiple cellular pathways.
- Further research into WWOX functions can provide insights into novel cancer therapies.
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