Multiple functions of a glioblastoma fusion oncogene

J Clin Invest. 2013 Feb;123(2):548-51. doi: 10.1172/JCI67658. Epub 2013 Jan 9.

Abstract

RNA sequencing facilitates the discovery of novel gene fusions in cancer. In this issue of the JCI, Parker et al. identify an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion oncogene in glioblastoma and demonstrate a novel mechanism of pathogenicity. A miR-99a binding site within the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of FGFR3 is lost, releasing FGFR3 signaling from miR-99a-dependent inhibition and greatly enhancing tumor progression relative to WT FGFR3. These results provide compelling insight into the pathogenicity of a novel fusion oncogene and suggest new therapeutic approaches for a subset of glioblastomas.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Gene Fusion*
  • Glioblastoma / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • Microtubule-Associated Proteins / genetics*
  • Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3 / genetics*

Substances

  • MIRN99 microRNA, human
  • MicroRNAs
  • Microtubule-Associated Proteins
  • TACC3 protein, human
  • FGFR3 protein, human
  • Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3