p63 and p73 : Life and death in squamous cell carcinoma

摘要: The p53 family member p63 plays an essential role in the developing epithelium, and overexpression of DeltaNp63alpha isoform is frequently observed human squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). These findings have suggested that might function as oncogene within epithelial cells. Nevertheless, mechanism by which promote tumorigenesis remains poorly understood, data from mouse models implies locus fact a tumor suppressor these same tissues. A recent study using RNA interference SCC-derived lines shows mediates survival SCC cells virtue its ability to suppress pro-apoptotic related p73. support oncogenic for they demonstrate existence critical physical functional interactions between endogenous members cancer. Specific chemotherapeutic agents future targeted approaches may be able exploit this pathway therapeutic advantage.