PTEN Protein Activity in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Author Information
Author(s): Snaddon J, Parkinson E K, Craft J A, Bartholomew C, Fulton R
Primary Institution: School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
Hypothesis
Is PTEN functionally active in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck despite loss of heterozygosity?
Conclusion
PTEN is functionally active in all examined head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, suggesting another tumor suppressor gene may be involved.
Supporting Evidence
- Loss of heterozygosity was evident at or close to the PTEN gene in 5 cases.
- PTEN protein levels were normal in all examined tumors and cell lines.
- PTEN was found to be functionally active in all 19 human SCCs.
Takeaway
The study looked at a gene called PTEN in cancer cells from the head and neck and found it was still working, even when some parts of it were missing.
Methodology
The study assessed PTEN status and activity in cell lines derived from squamous cell carcinomas using Western analysis and biochemical assays.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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