Myc gene

A family of regulator genes and proto-oncogenes

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Proto-oncogene
• Transcription factor
• Cell cycle
• Apoptosis
• Cancer