Notch and cancer: best to avoid the ups and downs

Cancer Cell. 2003 Mar;3(3):203-5. doi: 10.1016/s1535-6108(03)00052-7.

Abstract

The Notch pathway is known for its multiple important roles in development and tissue homeostasis, and it can be subverted during oncogenic transformation. Two recent studies add to our understanding of Notch in cancer biology in contrasting ways, by showing novel mechanisms of Notch pathway activation in cancer cells, and by indicating that in some circumstances, Notch can behave as a tumor suppressor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Genes, Tumor Suppressor
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Models, Biological
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Notch
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Membrane Proteins
  • Receptors, Cell Surface
  • Receptors, Notch