Tumor-specific markers of malignant melanoma

This review summarizes the attempt of our laboratory to characterize a novel membrane protein that is specific to malignant melanoma in both humans and mice. A possible mechanism is discussed for the formation of altered proteins that might explain the varied effects of protein abnormalities on the structure and function of neoplastic cells and might also provide insights into the putative role that these proteins play in the immune response of the host to neoplastic cells.