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Oncogenes and cell death
E A Harrington1, A Fanidi, G I Evan
1Biochemistry of the Cell Nucleus Laboratory, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, London, UK.
Abstract:
Several recent studies have implicated oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes in the regulation of programmed cell death (apoptosis). Lesions in the cell death pathway appear to be important in both carcinogenesis and the evolution of drug resistance in tumours. They include deregulated expression of genes such as bcl-2, loss of p53, and autocrine activation of anti-apoptotic signal transduction pathways. Paradoxically, a number of dominant oncogenes appear to act as potent inducers of apoptosis. This suggests that the pathways of cell proliferation and cell death may be tightly coupled, an idea that may have dramatic implications for models of oncogene co-operation and carcinogenesis.
Insights
Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes regulate programmed cell death (apoptosis). Dysregulation of these genes contributes to cancer development and drug resistance, impacting cell proliferation and death pathways.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
- Genetics
Background:
- Programmed cell death (apoptosis) is crucial for normal development and tissue homeostasis.
- Aberrations in apoptotic pathways are implicated in various diseases, including cancer.
- Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes play significant roles in regulating cell survival and death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in apoptosis.
- To understand the implications of altered cell death pathways in carcinogenesis and drug resistance.
- To explore the relationship between cell proliferation and cell death signaling.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of gene expression data related to apoptosis.
- Review of literature on oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and apoptosis.
- Examination of signaling pathways involved in cell death regulation.
Main Results:
- Deregulated expression of genes like bcl-2 and loss of p53 are linked to cancer.
- Autocrine activation of anti-apoptotic pathways contributes to tumor progression.
- Paradoxically, some oncogenes can induce apoptosis, suggesting complex regulatory mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Lesions in the cell death pathway are critical in cancer development and drug resistance.
- The interplay between cell proliferation and cell death pathways has significant implications for cancer models.
- Targeting apoptotic pathways presents potential therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.