Factors involved in leukaemogenesis and haemopoiesis.
This review describes the chromosomal abnormalities in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) which result in the over-expression of the gene SCL, which encodes a helix-loop-helix transcription factor. Also described are how gene targeting studies have revealed a key role for SCL in normal haemopoiesis. Next, the BCR-ABL fusion protein, seen in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and in some patients with ALL, is discussed. Finally, the involvement of members of the core-binding factor (CBF) gene family in leukaemogenesis are described. Members of this gene family are involved in the generation of fusion proteins as a result of t(8;21) and inv(16), the most common translocations associated with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). They provide a useful model of the way in which aberrant transcriptional function, brought about through genetic alterations, can modify haemopoietic development.
Elefanty
A G
AG
Division of Cancer and Haematology, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Robb
L
L
Begley
C G
CG
D000818:Animals; D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; D006410:Hematopoiesis / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007938:Leukemia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics