Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026

Identifying, Diagnosing, and Grading Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors in Genetically Engineered Mouse Models
Published on: May 17, 2024
Solid tumors associated with multiple endocrine neoplasias.
Madson Q Almeida1, Constantine A Stratakis
1Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Program on Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Building 10, CRC, Room I-3330, 10 Center Dr., MSC 1103, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
This review updates the molecular and clinical genetics of solid tumors in multiple endocrine neoplasias (MEN) syndromes. It details MEN1, MEN2, and other rare syndromes like Carney-Stratakis and Carney triad, focusing on associated tumors.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasias (MEN) syndromes are inherited disorders associated with various endocrine and non-endocrine tumors.
- Understanding the genetic basis of these syndromes is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated overview of the molecular and clinical genetics of solid tumors linked to MEN syndromes.
- To consolidate information on MEN1, MEN2, and other related rare tumor syndromes.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on the genetics and clinical manifestations of MEN syndromes and associated tumors.
- Synthesis of information regarding specific syndromes, including MEN1, MEN2, von Hippel-Lindau disease, neurofibromatosis 1, paraganglioma syndromes, Carney-Stratakis syndrome, and Carney triad.
Main Results:
- MEN1 is characterized by pituitary, parathyroid, and pancreatic islet cell tumors.
- MEN2 encompasses multiple syndromes involving pheochromocytoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and hyperparathyroidism.
- Other syndromes discussed include Carney-Stratakis (paragangliomas, GISTs) and Carney triad (GISTs, lung chondroma, paraganglioma).
Conclusions:
- Accurate genetic diagnosis and understanding of tumor associations are vital for managing patients with MEN and related syndromes.
- Continued research into the molecular genetics of these rare tumors will improve therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Metastasis
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
Structures of the Endocrine System
The Tumor Microenvironment
Tumor Progression
Colon cancer is one of the best-documented examples of tumor progression. Early mutation in the APC gene in colon cells causes a small growth on the colon wall called a polyp. With time, this polyp grows into a benign, pre-cancerous tumor. Further...