Signaling networks associated with BCR-ABL-dependent transformation.
BACKGROUND
The fusion protein BCR-ABL results in constitutive tyrosine kinase activity. It also affects downstream targets as well as the subcellular location of the normally tightly regulated Abl tyrosine kinase.


METHODS
The authors review the current knowledge concerning the signaling networks associated with BCR-ABL-dependent transformation.


RESULTS
Although BCR-ABL is considered a single genetic change, the dysregulated tyrosine kinase activates a network of signals that contributes to cytokine-independent growth, resistance to apoptosis, and genetic instability.


CONCLUSIONS
The effectiveness of BCR-ABL-dependent transformation of hematopoietic stem cells is due not to a single pathway but rather to the culmination of a network of signaling pathways.
Hazlehurst
Lori A
LA
Molecular Oncology Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA. Lori.Hazlehurst@moffitt.org
Bewry
Nadine N
NN
Nair
Rajesh R
RR
Pinilla-Ibarz
Javier
J