Recurrent TERT Promoter Mutations in Urothelial Carcinoma and Potential Clinical Applications

Increased telomerase activity is associated with almost all types of advanced human cancers with unknown molecular mechanism(s). Two recurrent point mutations in the promoter region of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) - the key subunit of telomerase – have recently been identified in melanoma as well as a small sample of bladder cancer cell lines. However, the incidence and clinical-pathological significance of these mutations in urothelial carcinoma have not been well established yet. We collected 86 specimens of urothelial carcinoma including upper and lower urinary tract; high grade and low grade; invasive and non-invasive; primary and metastatic.
Source: Annals of Diagnostic Pathology - Category: Pathology Authors: Tags: Original Contribution Source Type: research