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Reduction to homozygosity at the SIS/PDGF-2 locus in human mesenchymal tumors

D M Shin1, C Ince, M Shtalrid

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030.

Insights

Researchers investigated the human SIS/PDGF-2 gene in various tumors. They discovered tumor-specific allele loss in 18% of mesenchymal tumors, suggesting a potential common cause for this cancer type.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular biology
  • Oncology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Enhanced expression of the human SIS/PDGF-2 gene is observed in certain human cell lines, sarcomas, and glioblastomas.
  • The SIS/PDGF-2 gene plays a role in cell growth and development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the SIS/PDGF-2 gene for structural alterations in fresh human tumors.
  • To investigate potential genetic variations associated with tumor development.

Main Methods:

  • DNA samples from 79 solid tumor patients (mesenchymal, lung, breast) and controls were analyzed.
  • Southern blot analysis using a SIS/PDGF-2 gene probe after HindIII restriction endonuclease digestion.
  • Pedigree analysis was conducted on a 43-member family to assess allele segregation.

Main Results:

  • Southern blot analysis revealed two distinct allelic variants (21kb and 18kb) for the SIS/PDGF-2 gene.
  • These allelic variants segregated in a Mendelian fashion within a family.
  • Tumor-specific allele loss of the SIS/PDGF-2 gene was identified in 18% of analyzed mesenchymal tumors.

Conclusions:

  • The SIS/PDGF-2 gene exhibits allelic variations that follow Mendelian inheritance patterns.
  • A significant proportion of mesenchymal tumors show allele loss, indicating a potential role in tumorigenesis.
  • These findings may suggest a common etiology for mesenchymal tumors involving the SIS/PDGF-2 gene.

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