MCC (gene)

MCC, or Mutated in Colorectal Cancer, is a human gene located on chromosome 5q22. It was initially identified as a gene frequently mutated in colorectal cancers.

The MCC gene encodes a protein believed to be involved in cell adhesion and signal transduction pathways, particularly those related to Wnt signaling. The exact function of the MCC protein remains incompletely understood, but it is hypothesized to play a role in regulating cell growth and differentiation.

Mutations in the MCC gene have been observed in various cancers, most notably colorectal cancer. While not as frequently mutated as other colorectal cancer-associated genes like APC or KRAS, mutations in MCC are thought to contribute to tumor development and progression in some individuals.

Further research is ongoing to fully elucidate the role of MCC in normal cellular processes and its contribution to tumorigenesis. Understanding the precise function of MCC may lead to the development of targeted therapies for cancers in which MCC is dysregulated.

The MCC gene is a subject of continued interest in cancer research, particularly in the context of personalized medicine and the identification of novel therapeutic targets.