Separase Loss of Function Cooperates with the Loss of p53 in the Initiation and Progression of T- and B-Cell Lymphoma, Leukemia and Aneuploidy in Mice
2011

Separase and p53 in Mouse Lymphoma

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Mukherjee Malini, Ge Gouqing, Zhang Nenggang, Huang Eryong, Nakamura Lanelle V., Minor Marissa, Fofanov Viacheslav, Rao Pullivarthi H., Herron Alan, Pati Debananda

Primary Institution: Baylor College of Medicine

Hypothesis

Loss of function mutations of both Separase and p53 can collaborate in initiating and promoting malignant transformation in multiple cell types.

Conclusion

Reduced levels of Separase act synergistically with loss of p53 in the initiation and progression of B- and T-cell lymphomas, leading to increased chromosomal missegregation and genomic instability.

Supporting Evidence

  • ESPL1+/hyp, p53−/− mice developed aggressive mixed T- and B-cell lymphomas with a median survival period of 118 days.
  • Approximately 86% of the ESPL1+/hyp, p53−/− animals developed lymphomas.
  • Normal tissues in these mice displayed significantly increased aneuploidy and chromosomal aberrations.

Takeaway

Mice with lower levels of a protein called Separase, when combined with a missing p53 protein, get sick faster and develop aggressive types of blood cancer.

Methodology

The study used a hypomorphic mouse model to examine the effects of ESPL1 heterozygosity on tumor development in the absence of p53.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on mouse models, which may not fully replicate human cancer biology.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.005

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0022167

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