RAS Transformation Targets
Synonyms
RAS-regulated genes; RAS-responsive genes
Definition
The term “RAS transformation targets” is used for genes whose normal expression is either up-regulated or down-regulated by the permanent activation of RAS-mediated signal transduction in cancer cells. Critical target genes exert functions essential for the initiation or maintenance of malignancy, while other targets may be deregulated as a consequence of the transformation process.
Characteristics
Target gene patterns specific for transformed cells may partially overlap with those obtained in normal cells stimulated with growth factors and in cells in which differentiation or senescence are induced via the RAS pathway. In a general way, the term “target” defines a gene whose transcription is turned on or off by a positive or negative regulator present in the nucleus. In eukaryotic genes, gene regulation is governed by binding of transcription factorsto defined transcriptional control regions (motifs) on genomic DNA...
References
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