Role of T-box Gene in Mammary Gland Development and Neoplasia
Abstract
We are investigating a newly discovered family of genes, the T-box genes, that play critical roles in inductive interactions in the development of many organs. In the mouse, two of these genes, Tbx2 and Tbx3, are expressed in the developing mammary glands. One is also expressed in adult glands and in mammary tumors. Our hypothesis is that Tbx2 and Tbx3 are required in the signaling pathway of normal mammary gland development, and could be involved in mammary carcinogenesis. Previously, we proposed Tbx3 as a candidate gene for the Ulnar-mammary Syndrome in humans, based on the observed expression patterns and the chromosomal location of the locus, and this has recently been proven to be the case. Mutations in this gene are responsible for the mammary hypoplasia characteristic of this syndrome. Our goals are to explore the roles of Tbx2 and Tbx3 in mammary development and carcinogenesis by producing mutations in these genes. In work to date we have detailed the expression of the genes in embryo and adult mammary glands and have begun to characterize the genes. The significance of this work is in elucidating normal mechanisms of mammary development and thereby aiding in the understanding of how growth controls can go wrong in cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA332873
Entities
People
- Virginia Papaioannou
Organizations
- Columbia University