Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 8, 2025

Monitoring Hippo Signaling Pathway Activity Using a Luciferase-based Large Tumor Suppressor LATS Biosensor
Published on: September 13, 2018
The von Hippel-Lindau Tumor Suppressor Gene: Implications and Therapeutic Opportunities
Roy Elias1, Qing Zhang2, James Brugarolas1
1From the Kidney Cancer Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Abstract:
The discovery of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene marked a milestone in our understanding of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) pathogenesis. VHL inactivation is not only a defining feature of ccRCC, but also the initiating event. Herein, we discuss canonical and noncanonical pVHL functions, as well as breakthroughs shaping our understanding of ccRCC evolution and evolutionary subtypes. We conclude by presenting evolving strategies to therapeutically exploit effector mechanisms downstream of pVHL.
Insights
The von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene's discovery is crucial for understanding clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).
- VHL gene inactivation is a key event in ccRCC development.
- Understanding VHL's role is vital for ccRCC research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the canonical and noncanonical functions of the VHL protein (pVHL).
- To discuss advancements in understanding ccRCC evolution and its subtypes.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting VHL-related pathways in ccRCC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of VHL gene and ccRCC pathogenesis.
- Analysis of VHL protein functions.
- Synthesis of current research on ccRCC evolution and therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- VHL inactivation is the initiating event in ccRCC.
- pVHL has diverse functions beyond its canonical role.
- Distinct evolutionary subtypes of ccRCC are emerging.
Conclusions:
- VHL gene inactivation is central to ccRCC pathogenesis.
- Further research into pVHL functions can reveal new therapeutic avenues.
- Targeting downstream effectors of VHL offers promising ccRCC treatment strategies.
More Related Videos
11:32Identification of Transcription Factor Regulators using Medium-Throughput Screening of Arrayed Libraries and a Dual-Luciferase-Based Reporter
Published on: March 27, 2020
09:37Defining Gene Functions in Tumorigenesis by Ex vivo Ablation of Floxed Alleles in Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor Cells
Published on: August 25, 2021
Related Concept Videos
Loss of Tumor Suppressor Gene Functions
When the tumor suppressor genes develop mutations or are lost, cells start growing out of control, leading to cancer. However, a single functional copy of the tumor suppressor gene is enough for the cells to maintain their normal functions and cell...
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
Cancer-Critical Genes II: Tumor Suppressor Genes
When the function of certain critical genes, especially those involved in cell cycle regulation and cell growth signaling cascades, gets disrupted, it upsets the cell cycle progression. Such cells with unchecked cell cycles start proliferating uncontrollably and eventually develop into tumors.
Such genes that act...
Abnormal Proliferation
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
lncRNA - Long Non-coding RNAs