A DNA transposon-based approach to validate oncogenic mutations in the mouse

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2008 Dec 16;105(50):19904-9. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0807785105. Epub 2008 Dec 8.

Abstract

Large-scale cancer genome projects will soon be able to sequence many cancer genomes to comprehensively identify genetic changes in human cancer. Genome-wide association studies have also identified putative cancer associated loci. Functional validation of these genetic mutations in vivo is becoming a challenge. We describe here a DNA transposon-based platform that permits us to explore the oncogenic potential of genetic mutations in the mouse. Briefly, promoter-less human cancer gene cDNAs were first cloned into Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposons. DNA transposition in the mouse that carried both the transposons and the SB transposase made it possible for the cDNAs to be expressed from an appropriate endogenous genomic locus and in the relevant cell types for tumor development. Consequently, these mice developed a broad spectrum of tumors at very early postnatal stages. This technology thus complements the large-scale cancer genome projects.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Base Sequence
  • Cloning, Molecular
  • DNA Mutational Analysis / methods*
  • DNA Transposable Elements / genetics*
  • DNA, Complementary / genetics
  • DNA, Neoplasm / genetics*
  • Genetic Complementation Test
  • Genome, Human
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis
  • Oncogenes*
  • Transposases / genetics

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • DNA, Complementary
  • DNA, Neoplasm
  • Transposases
  • sleeping beauty transposase, human