Yes-Associated-Protein 1 in adrenocortical tumors

• Grant number: 13/21653-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): July 01, 2014
• Effective date (End): June 30, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Sonir Roberto Rauber Antonini
• Grantee: Rafael Haikal Abduch
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The molecular basis of adrenocortical tumors (ACT) is partially known. The oncogene Yes-Associated-Protein-1 is overexpressed in several common human cancers. In addition, YAP1 interacts with the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway. Deregulation in these pathways appears to play an important role in adrenocortical tumorigenesis. Therefore, it is possible that abnormalities in expression and function of YAP1 contribute to the adrenocortical tumorigenesis. Objectives: To evaluate the expression of YAP1 gene in the normal adrenal cortex and in ACT and its interaction with the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. Materials and methods: YAP1 mRNA and protein expression in normal adrenal cortex and in pediatric and adult ACTs will be evaluated by qPCR (Taqman), immunohistochemistry and Western blot. In addition, to evaluate the interaction between YAP1 and Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, H295A and SW-13 cell lines will be treated with PNU-74654 (TCF/beta-catenin antagonist) and YAP1 expression will be evaluated by qPCR (Taqman), immunocytochemistry and Western blot. Perspectives: YAP1 abnormal expression may be found in ACT and could play an important role in the adrenocortical tumorigenesis process. The results of this study can contribute to the understanding of ACT molecular basis and to the development of new therapies in the future.