Analysis of Trib genes in leukaemia

Ni Ealaithe, C., Rishi, L. and Keeshan, K. (2014) Analysis of Trib genes in leukaemia. Irish Journal of Medical Science, 183(S4), S133-S134. (doi: 10.1007/s11845-014-1153-9)

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Abstract

Introduction: Tribbles are a set of genes that include Trib1, 2 and 3. The Trib2 protein is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of certain acute myelogenous leukaemia (AML) subtypes, via the degradation of the transcription factor, C/EBPa. (1) Previous research has shown increased Trib2 mRNA expression in samples from a single AML patient, (2) However, it is still unknown whether this mRNA is transcribed fully, as Trib2 protein levels have never been reported in human AML samples. Aims: Firstly, to develop Western Blot techniques for Trib1–3 and C/EBPa proteins. To then determine presence/absence of these proteins in human AML samples and to quantify them if present. Lastly, to evaluate these protein levels with respect to patient’s clinical status. Methods: Blood samples were collected from an AML patient undergoing palliative care. Western blotting protocols were then developed to measure Trib1–3 and C/EBPa. Using these novel techniques, protein levels in patient samples were measured. Levels in healthy patient samples and AML cell lines were also measured, for negative and positive controls respectively. Results: Trib2 protein was successfully detected in human AML blood samples. Levels were found to be almost four times higher than in healthy control samples. Trib3 levels were not detected in patient samples. With regard to the remaining two proteins, C/EBPa and Trib1, further method development is required. Conclusions: Trib2 protein levels are raised in human AML samples. There is no obvious quantitative correlation between Trib2 levels and clinical status. Trib3 does not appear to be involved in AML pathology. Techniques for C/EBPa and Trib1 need further development before a definitive answer can be given.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Keeshan, Dr Karen
Authors: Ni Ealaithe, C., Rishi, L., and Keeshan, K.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cancer Sciences
Journal Name:Irish Journal of Medical Science
Publisher:Springer Verlag
ISSN:0021-1265
ISSN (Online):1863-4362

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