Role of the MDM2 Gene on the Development and Progression of Common Cancers
Oftentimes, cancer is described as a process by which the cells in your body divide uncontrollably due to mutations or unexpected changes in our DNA. These mutations can be caused by a number of factors including, but not limited to genetic influence, radiation, and environmental exposure. There are many events that lead to the development of cancer, i.e. loss of tumor suppressor or activation of oncogenes. One oncogene that is involved in tumor development and metastatic disease is the murine double minute -2 gene, MDM2. We have found that mutations in the Mdm2 oncogene change its recruitment of other proteins. We are currently exploring the activity of these mutations and how they affect cellular proliferation.