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Increased expression of the putative growth factor receptor p185HER2 causes transformation and tumorigenesis of NIH
R M Hudziak1, J Schlessinger, A Ullrich
1Department of Developmental Biology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080.
Abstract:
The HER2 gene encodes a cell-surface glycoprotein with extensive homology to the epidermal growth factor receptor. Recently it was found to be amplified in about 30% of primary human breast malignancies. In experiments designed to assess the role of the HER2 gene in oncogenesis, we found that overexpression of unaltered HER2 coding sequences in NIH 3T3 cells resulted in cellular transformation and tumorigenesis.
Insights
Overexpression of the HER2 gene, amplified in many breast cancers, transforms normal cells into cancerous ones. This finding highlights HER2's role in oncogenesis and tumor development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The HER2 gene encodes a cell-surface glycoprotein homologous to the epidermal growth factor receptor.
- HER2 gene amplification is observed in approximately 30% of primary human breast malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the HER2 gene in oncogenesis.
- To determine if HER2 gene overexpression can induce cellular transformation and tumorigenesis.
Main Methods:
- Overexpression of unaltered HER2 coding sequences in NIH 3T3 cells.
Main Results:
- Overexpression of HER2 in NIH 3T3 cells led to cellular transformation.
- Tumorigenesis was observed in NIH 3T3 cells overexpressing HER2.
Conclusions:
- The HER2 gene plays a significant role in oncogenesis.
- HER2 overexpression is sufficient to induce cellular transformation and tumor formation.