APC GENE Meaning and
Definition
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The APC gene (adenomatous polyposis coli gene) is a tumor suppressor gene responsible for coding the Adenomatous Polyposis Coli protein. It is located on chromosome 5q21-22 and is primarily expressed in epithelial cells of the colon and rectum.
The APC gene plays a vital role in regulating cell growth and division, as well as maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium. Mutations in the APC gene are frequently associated with the development of colorectal cancer, particularly familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome. FAP is an inherited condition characterized by the formation of numerous benign polyps in the colon and rectum, which have the potential to become cancerous over time.
The APC protein acts as a gatekeeper in the Wnt signaling pathway, where it helps regulate the levels of β-catenin, a transcriptional co-activator. When the APC gene is functioning correctly, it degrades β-catenin, preventing excessive signaling and cell proliferation. However, mutations in the APC gene disrupt this regulatory mechanism, leading to the accumulation of β-catenin in the cell and unchecked cell growth.
The identification and understanding of the APC gene have proven crucial in the diagnosis and management of hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes. Genetic testing for APC gene mutations can help identify individuals at risk of developing FAP or other related conditions, allowing for early surveillance and preventive measures such as regular colonoscopies or prophylactic surgery.
Common Misspellings for APC GENE
- zpc gene
- spc gene
- wpc gene
- qpc gene
- aoc gene
- alc gene
- a-c gene
- a0c gene
- apx gene
- apv gene
- apf gene
- apd gene
- apc fene
- apc vene
- apc bene
- apc hene
- apc yene
- apc tene
- apc gwne
- apc gsne
Etymology of APC GENE
The term "APC gene" stands for Adenomatous Polyposis Coli gene. Here is the etymology of the components of this term:1. Adenomatous: This term comes from the word "adenoma", which refers to a benign tumor that forms from glandular cells. The word itself is derived from the Greek term "aden" meaning "gland" and "-oma" meaning "tumor".2. Polyposis: This term comes from the word "polyp", which refers to an abnormal tissue growth projecting from a mucous membrane. The word "polyp" is derived from the Greek term "polypous", meaning "footless" or "foot-shaped" due to the tentacle-like appearance of some polyps.3. Coli: This term indicates that the gene is associated with the colon. It is derived from the Latin word "colon", which means "large intestine".
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