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Stem cell reprogramming as a driver of basal cell carcinoma
1Institute of Medical Biology, 8A Biomedical Grove, 06-06 Immunos, 138648 Singapore.
Nature Cell Biology
|December 1, 2012
Summary
Basal cell carcinoma arises from activated hedgehog signaling in skin cells. This process involves reprogramming cells to an embryonic hair follicle fate, activating the Wnt pathway.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a common skin cancer.
- Its origin is linked to specific cellular signaling pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the early cellular events in basal cell carcinoma formation.
- To understand the role of hedgehog and Wnt signaling in BCC development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cellular reprogramming in skin progenitor cells.
- Investigation of signaling pathway activation during early tumorigenesis.
Main Results:
- Basal cell carcinoma originates from interfollicular epidermal progenitor cells.
- Activation of hedgehog signaling is a key initiating event.
- Cellular reprogramming to an embryonic hair follicle progenitor-like fate occurs.
- Concomitant activation of the Wnt pathway is required.
Conclusions:
- Hedgehog pathway activation initiates BCC by reprogramming epidermal cells.
- Wnt pathway activation is essential for this oncogenic transformation process.
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