title: Molecular genetics of neuroendocrine tumors.
abstract: Neuroendocrine tumors are a group of malignancies that arise from primitive neuroectodermal cells. There is, however, considerable variation in the location and clinical behavior of these tumors. They are often difficult to distinguish from other malignancies and difficult to classify. Recent advances in molecular genetics have attempted to resolve some issues regarding accurate diagnosis, classification into prognostic subgroups, and understanding of basic common mechanisms underlying the development of these tumors. Correlation of morphologic changes with molecular changes induced by some potential therapeutic differentiating agents may lead to more rational therapy for these malignancies.
authors.affiliation: Mayo Clinic, Department of Oncology, Rochester, MN 55905.
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Ganju
authors.forename: L K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: Kvols
mesh_terms: D015816:Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal / Q000096:biosynthesis; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000187:drug effects; D002872:Chromosome Deletion; D004351:Drug Resistance / Q000235:genetics; D016259:Genes, myc / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D009423:Nervous System Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D009490:Neurosecretory Systems; D011519:Proto-Oncogenes / Q000235:genetics
chemical_list: D015816:Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal