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Mechanisms by which EGF receptor and TGF alpha contribute to malignant transformation
E Di Marco1, J H Pierce, S A Aaronson
1Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.
Abstract:
Alterations affecting the epidermal growth factor/transforming growth factor alpha-responsive mitogenic pathway are frequently detected in malignancies. In particular, the epidermal growth factor receptor has been found overexpressed in a number of human tumors. Production and secretion of transforming growth factor type alpha has also been shown in several tumor cells but not in their normal counterparts. In this review we describe the establishment of in vitro model systems to study the transforming potential of these molecules and summarize our current understanding of the mechanisms involved in transformation by genes encoding a growth factor and a growth factor receptor.
Insights
Alterations in the epidermal growth factor pathway are common in cancers. This review explores how growth factors and their receptors contribute to tumor development using in vitro models.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Signaling
Background:
- Aberrant signaling through the epidermal growth factor (EGF) pathway is a hallmark of many cancers.
- Overexpression of the EGF receptor and production of transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) are frequently observed in tumor cells.
- These molecular alterations suggest a role in malignant transformation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the establishment of in vitro model systems for studying the transforming potential of EGF pathway molecules.
- To summarize current knowledge on the mechanisms driving transformation mediated by growth factor and growth factor receptor genes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized in vitro model systems to investigate the functional consequences of altered EGF pathway signaling.
- Reviewed existing literature on the role of growth factors and receptors in cancer development.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the utility of in vitro models in dissecting the transforming potential of specific genes.
- Highlighted the distinct expression patterns of TGF-α in tumor versus normal cells.
- Summarized key mechanisms by which growth factor and receptor genes contribute to cellular transformation.
Conclusions:
- In vitro models are crucial for understanding the oncogenic roles of growth factors and receptors.
- The EGF/TGF-α pathway represents a significant target for cancer research and therapeutic intervention.