Transcriptional Addiction in Cancer

Cell. 2017 Feb 9;168(4):629-643. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2016.12.013.

Abstract

Cancer arises from genetic alterations that invariably lead to dysregulated transcriptional programs. These dysregulated programs can cause cancer cells to become highly dependent on certain regulators of gene expression. Here, we discuss how transcriptional control is disrupted by genetic alterations in cancer cells, why transcriptional dependencies can develop as a consequence of dysregulated programs, and how these dependencies provide opportunities for novel therapeutic interventions in cancer.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Methylation
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • Transcription Factors