[Molecular aspects of pituitary tumorigenesis].
Pituitary tumors, almost invariably adenomas, are of frequent occurrence, accounting for 10% to 15% of all the intracranial neoplasm. They are classified as microadenomas (< 10 mm) or macroadenomas (> 10 mm) and as secreting or clinically non-secreting (or not functioning) adenomas. These tumors are autonomously capable to release pituitary hormones such as the growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The occurrence of metastases, characterizing a pituitary carcinoma, is exceedingly rare. However tumors with aggressive behavior, leading to local invasion, are relatively common. Although the pathogenesis of pituitary tumors is fully characterized, many molecular mechanisms of pituitary tumorigenesis had already been revealed. This review intends to describe advances in the understanding of the involved advances that have been made in the last decade concerning pituitary tumors progression, including the participation of oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes and growth factors.
Pinto
Emilia M
EM
Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil. emiliap@plugnet.com.br
Bronstein
Marcello D
MD
D002453:Cell Cycle / Q000502:physiology; D016147:Genes, Tumor Suppressor / Q000502:physiology*; D016158:Genes, p53 / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D010911:Pituitary Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology
D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins