adrenocortical dysplasia (acd) gene

 We utilize genetic approaches including positional cloning and candidate gene screening to characterize genes that contribute to the development of cancer.   We have recently cloned the gene responsible for adrenocortical dysplasia (acd).  The Acd gene codes for a novel telomere binding protein.  Telomeres are the far ends of chromosomes and in normal cells telomeres shorten with each cell division allowing appropriate cell aging.  Most cancer cells have mechanisms that maintain telomere length and allow indefinite cell expansion.  In this research project our laboratory uses the acd deficient mouse model to study the developmental consequences of the loss of the integrity of the telomere cap complex and the mechanisms by which this failure may facilitate tumor transformation. With a special focus on adrenocortical cancer we are also studying the mechanisms of telomere maintenance in sporadic ACC.  These studies may in the future lead to the discovery of novel targets for therapy.