HET is a Novel Tumor Suppressor Gene in Human Breast Cancer
Abstract
We have discovered that the nuclear matrix protein HET/SAFB maps to a chromosomal locus on 19pl3 which displays very high loss of heterozygozity (LOH). LOH are hallmarks of tumor suppressor genes, and thus we studied whether HET/SAFB could function as a tumor suppressor gene. Over the last three years we have generated data, which not only support our hypothesis but also allowed us to get further funding to extend our studies. We have confirmed the high LOH rates in a second independent LOH study using microdissected breast tumors. Again, the LOH rates were unusually high (70-80%). We have identified point mutations in the HET/SAFB gene in breast cancer cell lines as well as in tumors but not in the adjacent normal tissue. The reintroduction of a mutated SAFB into cell lines leads to phenotypical changes observed in breast tumors. Furthermore, SAFB expression in breast tumors is associated with aneuploidy, suggesting a possible involvement in chromosomal integrity. Finally, we have recently begun to generate mice models, which will help us to definitely prove that SAFB is involved in tumorigenesis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA405229
Entities
People
- Steffi Oesterreich
Organizations
- Baylor College of Medicine