Malignancy tumor suppressor genes

In apoptotic cell death, several factors such as growth factors, NO, the tumor suppressor gene p53, and the protein encoded by this gene contribute to the process that leads to cell death. One of the functions of p53 protein is the activation of apoptosis if a cell is transformed to a malignant cell. Apoptosis typically leads to the formation of smaller membrane-encapsulated particles within the cell. Apoptotic cell death begins in the nucleus and proceeds to other parts of the cell. The death process may be quite advanced before it can... 

Nucleic acids in the DNA contain a high number of nucleophilic sites that can be attacked by electrophilic intermediates (metabolites) of chemical compounds. DNA adducts formed may cause alterations in the expression of a critical gene in the cell and thus lead to cell death. For example, modification of p53 tumor suppressor gene may inactivate the functions of the p53 protein and render cells sensitive to malignant transformation. Also, formation of RNA adducts may inhibit key cellular events because RNA is essential for protein synthesis. 

The mutation of the p53 tumor suppressor gene has been well recognized to be associated in most head and neck malignancies. ONYX-015 is an adenovirus vector com-... 

Elbendary, A. A., Cirisano, F. D., Evans, A. C., Davis, P. L., Iglehart, J. D., Marks, J. R., and Berchuck, A. 1996. Relationship between p21 expression and mutation ofp53 tumor suppressor gene in normal and malignant ovarian epithelial cells. Clin. Cancer Res. 2 1571-1575. 

Activation of protooncogenes, inhibition or mutation of tumor suppressor genes, and production of autocrine growth factors contribute to ceUular proliferation and malignant transformation. Molecular changes, such as P53 mutations and overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor, also affect disease prognosis and response to therapy. 

Flejter WL, Li FP, Antman KH, et al. 1989. Recurring loss involving chromosomes 1, 3, and 22 in malignant mesothelioma Possible sites of tumor suppressor genes. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 1 148-154. 

Murthy SS, Testa JR. 1999. Asbestos, chromosomal deletions, and tumor suppressor gene alterations in human malignant mesothelioma. J Cell Physiol 180 150-157. 

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