Regulation of C-myc Gene Expression by Potassium Channel Blocker Quindine in MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell Line

Abstract

C-myc is a protooncogene, that plays an important role in regulation of cell cycle progression, cellular differentiation and apoptosis. Its abnormal expression was reported in 32% of breast cancers and tumorigenic properties of c-myc overexpression was confirmed by both in vitro and in vivo models of breast cancer. Hence, it is important to understand the precise molecular mechanisms of c-myc regulation. The goal of this proposal is to elucidate how depolarization of the membrane potential in response to potassium channel blocking agent quinidine regulates expression of c-myc gene. Specific aim #1 was to test effects of quinidine on c-myc promoter activity in transient reporter gene assay. We mapped 614 bp minimal region of c-myc promoter, that is sufficient to confer responsiveness to quinidine. Fine mapping of this region using PCR and characterization of the nature of DNA/protein(s) interaction in that region are our next goals. Specific aim #2 was to test effects of quinidine on c-myc transcription rate using nuclear run-on assay. This aim remained unchanged and will be completed within the proposed time schedule. The significance of this proposal is that its results will improve our understanding of c-myc gene regulation and might discover new targets for breast cancer therapy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 2000
Accession Number
ADA384096

Entities

People

  • Zaroui Melkoumian

Organizations

  • West Virginia University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Biological Sciences
  • Breast Cancer
  • Cell Line
  • Cell Physiological Processes
  • Cells
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Cytoskeleton
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Epithelial Cells
  • Gene Expression
  • Genetics
  • Medical Personnel
  • Membrane Potentials
  • Neoplasms
  • Tumor Cell Line

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Medicine

Readers

  • Molecular Biology and Genetics