T
his issue of DNA and Cell Biology features a study of TERE1 and its role in bladder cancer. This article is part of a new, recurring section in the journal, Molecular Mechanisms of Disease, which highlights work exploring disease at the level of proteins and pathways. In their work, Fredericks and coworkers examined how loss of TERE1 may cause a defect in cholesterol homeostasis that contributes to the progression of invasive bladder cancer. They found that TERE1 expression was reduced in some invasive tumors. TERE1 and TBL2 (to which TERE1 binds) inversely modulate cellular cholesterol. Mutations in TERE1 affect interactions with cholesterol carrier proteins. Their work, “The Bladder Tumor Suppressor Protein TERE1 Modulates Cell Cholesterol: Implications for Tumor Progression,” is an elegant example of a study on the molecular mechanisms of disease. Fredericks and colleagues altered TERE1 and TBL2 levels by ectopic expression and RNAi. Ectopic TERE1 expression in J82 bladder cancer cells reduced tumorigenesis in a nude mouse model. Intracellular cholesterol levels were also changed. The authors conclude by suggesting how their findings may contribute to finding additional markers or therapies for bladder cancer. Building a bridge between molecular findings and clinical applications is the goal of this special section of DNA and Cell Biology. DNA and Cell Biology is currently soliciting other manuscripts focusing on molecular mechanisms of disease. Please contact the DNA and Cell Biology editorial office (dnaandcellbiology@yale.edu) for more information.
