What Are Common Mechanisms Leading to Aberrant Gene Expression?
Several mechanisms can result in aberrant gene expression, including: 1. Genetic Mutations: Mutations can directly alter the coding sequence of genes, leading to dysfunctional proteins. 2. Epigenetic Changes: Modifications such as DNA methylation or histone acetylation can affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. 3. Translocations and Amplifications: Chromosomal rearrangements can result in the formation of fusion genes or increased copies of oncogenes, driving cancer progression. 4. Non-Coding RNAs: MicroRNAs and long non-coding RNAs can regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, and their dysregulation is often observed in cancer.
