Review article: Current concepts of ameloblastoma pathogenesis.
Ameloblastoma is a locally destructive and invasive tumour that can recur despite adequate surgical removal. Molecular studies have offered interesting findings regarding ameloblastoma pathogenesis. In the present review, the following topics are discussed regarding its molecular nature: clonality, cell cycle proliferation, apoptosis, tumour suppressor genes, ameloblastin and other enamel matrix proteins, osteoclastic mechanism and matrix metalloproteinases and other signalling molecules. It is clear from the literature reviewed that translational studies are necessary to identify prognostic markers of ameloblastoma behaviour and to establish new diagnostic tools to the differential diagnosis of unicystic from multicystic ameloblastoma. Finally, molecular biology studies are also important to develop more effective alternative approaches to the treatment of this aggressive odontogenic tumour.
Gomes
Carolina Cavalieri
CC
Department of Pathology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Duarte
Alessandra Pires
AP
Diniz
Marina Gonçalves
MG
Gomez
Ricardo Santiago
RS
D000564:Ameloblastoma / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000235:genetics; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D002999:Clone Cells; D003746:Dental Enamel Proteins / Q000235:genetics; D016147:Genes, Tumor Suppressor / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000502:physiology; D010010:Osteoclasts / Q000502:physiology; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000235:genetics
C490889:AMBN protein, human; D003746:Dental Enamel Proteins; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases