Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) progression was linked to the down-regulation of ASY/Nogo transcription

04-12-2007

"ATLL is an aggressive form of human leukemia/lymphoma. Although this disease is initiated by infection with human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), many HTLV-1 carriers survive for a long period without aggressive illness, suggesting that other factors may play roles in the progression of ATLL to an aggressive state," researchers in Japan reported.

"However, the mechanism involved in this progression still remains unclear," explained M. Shimakage and colleagues, Wakayama National Hospital. "Previously, we have reported that ASY/Nogo mRNA was markedly down-regulated in human small-cell lung carcinomas, whereas it was expressed in normal tissues and other lung carcinomas, such as adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

"To understand whether or not ASY/Nogo gene is involved in the progression of ATLL, we examined the expression of ASY/Nogo mRNA in smoldering, chronic and aggressive ATLL, and found that the expression level of ASY/Nogo mRNA was markedly reduced in clinically aggressive ATLL. HTLV-1 Tax expression was not affected by the down-regulation of ASY/Nogo mRNA."

The researchers concluded, "These results indicate that the ASY/Nogo gene may act as a suppressor against ATLL progression, independent of Tax expression."

Shimakage and colleagues published their study in International Journal of Cancer (Down-regulation of ASY/Nogo transcription associated with progression of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. Int J Cancer, 2006;119(7):1648-1653).

For additional information, contact M. Shimakage, Wakayama National Hospital, National Hospital Organization, Dept. of Pediatrics, 1138 Wada, Mihama Cho, Wakayama 6440044, Japan.

This article was prepared by Life Science Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Life Science Weekly via NewsRx.com.