Pathogenesis of Merkel Cell Carcinoma

摘要: Despite a substantial research effort, the understanding of molecular basis MCC is still limited. Overexpression anti-apoptotic molecule bcl-2 was observed in three-fourths tumors two independent studies [10, 21]. Inhibition expression vivo by antisense oligonucleotides SCID mouse/human tumor xenograft model resulted shrinkage [31]. The this anti-apoptosis protein common finding many cancers and suggests one its mechanisms to avoid cell death; however, same when tested phase II trial, demonstrated only very limited, if any, efficacy patients with [32]. Moreover, overexpression does not illuminate promitotic pathways that drive MCC.