Myc gene

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


The MYC gene is a family of regulator genes and proto-oncogenes that code for transcription factors. These transcription factors are involved in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and cellular transformation. The MYC family consists of three related human genes: c-Myc, N-Myc, and L-Myc.

Function[edit | edit source]

The MYC gene encodes a transcription factor that is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family. This protein plays a crucial role in cell cycle regulation, cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. MYC functions by binding to specific DNA sequences, thereby regulating the expression of target genes.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations and overexpression of the MYC gene are associated with many types of cancer, including Burkitt's lymphoma, breast cancer, and lung cancer. MYC is considered a proto-oncogene because its normal function is to promote cell proliferation, but when mutated or overexpressed, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

MYC is tightly regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational mechanisms. The protein is rapidly degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, ensuring that its levels are kept in check under normal conditions.

Interactions[edit | edit source]

MYC interacts with several other proteins, including MAX, which is another bHLH transcription factor. The MYC-MAX complex binds to E-box sequences in the DNA to regulate gene expression. MYC also interacts with other proteins involved in chromatin remodeling, DNA replication, and RNA processing.

Research and Therapeutic Implications[edit | edit source]

Due to its role in cancer, MYC is a target for cancer therapy. Researchers are investigating various strategies to inhibit MYC function, including small molecules, RNA interference, and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD