Possible Cancer Link of Newly Discovered Protein Interaction
15th April 2005 - Scientists at The Institute have discovered a new protein interaction which may play a role in tumour formation in several cancers.
Retinoblastoma protein (Rb) is a tumour suppressor protein and loss of its function is implicated in many cancers. Research by Sibylle Mittnacht’s team has identified a way in which the tumour suppressor function of Rb may be weakened by another cellular protein - RET Finger Protein (RFP).
When RFP binds to Rb it seems to stop Rb’s ability to promote cell differentiation, which is thought to be required for effective suppression of tumour formation, whilst not affecting its role in regulating cell replication. The evidence suggests that this mechanism may weaken Rb’s ability to suppress tumour formation yet allow tumours to retain control of the replication cycle, which may contribute to tumour survival. Further research into this possible link is currently underway.
Find out more about Retinoblastoma research:
- Sibylle Mittnacht
- Antioncogene Team
