Mutant KRAS, chromosomal instability and prognosis in colorectal cancer

Biochim Biophys Acta. 2005 Nov 25;1756(2):115-25. doi: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2005.06.003. Epub 2005 Jul 13.

Abstract

The RAS gene family provides a global effect on gene expression by encoding small GTP-binding proteins which act as molecular switches connecting extracellular signals with nuclear transcription factors. While wild type RAS proteins are switched off shortly after activation, mutant RAS proteins remain constitutively activated leading to complex interactions among their downstream effectors. For some human tumor types, these interactions were shown to contribute to cancer genesis and progression by inducing changes in cell survival, apoptosis, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. This review addresses the controversial link of KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer with chromosomal instability and patient prognosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chromosomal Instability / genetics*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Genes, ras*
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Prognosis
  • ras Proteins / genetics

Substances

  • ras Proteins