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The role of c-myc in cell growth

G I Evan1, T D Littlewood

  • 1Biochemistry of the Cell Nucleus Laboratory, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, UK.

Current Opinion in Genetics & Development
|February 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

The c-myc oncogene produces a DNA-binding protein that partners with Max, influencing gene transcription. This protein is involved in cell growth, proliferation, and cell death, highlighting its complex role in cellular processes.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The c-myc oncogene is a critical regulator of cell growth and differentiation.
  • Its protein product is known to bind DNA and influence gene expression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the molecular interactions and biological functions of the c-myc protein.
  • To understand the role of c-myc in cellular processes beyond transformation and mitogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Experimental validation of c-myc's DNA-binding capabilities.
  • Identification and characterization of c-myc's interaction partner, Max.
  • Analysis of c-myc's downstream effects on gene transcription.

Main Results:

  • Confirmed c-myc as a sequence-specific DNA-binding protein.
  • Established Max as a specific intracellular partner for c-myc.
  • Demonstrated that c-myc modulates gene transcription.
  • Expanded the known functions of c-myc to include cell death.

Conclusions:

  • The c-myc oncogene encodes a transcription factor that interacts with Max.
  • c-myc plays a multifaceted role in cellular fate, regulating processes from proliferation to apoptosis.

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