Detailed analysis of epigenetics of Wilms tumor reveals similarities to stem cells

Detailed analysis of epigenetics of Wilms tumor reveals similarities to stem cells
4. June 2010 02:01


Findings suggest mechanism of tumor development, may apply to other pediatric cancers
A detailed analysis of the epigenetics - factors controlling when and in what tissues genes are expressed - of Wilms tumor reveals striking similarities to stem cells normally found in fetal kidneys. These findings by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Cancer Center researchers have revealed new cellular pathways that are critical for Wilms tumor development and may also apply to other pediatric cancers. The report appears in the June 4 Cell Stem Cell.

Genetic mutations - changes to the sequence of DNA molecules - are known to underlie many types of cancer. But the role of epigenetics in tumor development is just beginning to be explored. The MGH team has been using advanced sequencing technology to investigate the role of chromatin, the structure that makes up chromosomes and consists of DNA wrapped around a protein backbone studded with molecules that can activate or suppress gene expression.

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Detailed analysis of epigenetics of Wilms tumor reveals similarities to stem cells