The role of the APC gene and his product in induction of hereditary and sporadics forms of colorectal cancer.

Project leader: Vladimír Zajac
Project duration: 2011 - 2014

Colorectal tumors with regard to their sporadic, but hereditary origin as well; represent very suitable model for genetic and non-genetic alterations study from a tumor progression point of view. Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is induced for 90% by germline mutations in the APC gene. Following mutation of K-ras oncogene, DCC, TP53 and ß-catenin genes respectively allows an inactivation of the second APC allele and the process ends by arising of carcinoma. The main goal of project is: 1.) to continue in completing a set of FAP suspected patients and analysis mutations in the APC gene; 2.) recloning of the APC gene into bacterial expression vector; 3.) testing the terapeutic capability of expressed APC protein on animal transgene mouse model APC+/APC1638N. Application of bacteria with expressed APC protein should be demostrate in longer-range living of tested animals. In the case of successful bactotherapy, such model should be improved in clinical praxis with using as a carrier probiotics bacteria.