Synovial Sarcoma: A Complex Disease with Multifaceted Signaling and Epigenetic Landscapes

ABSTRACTPurpose of ReviewAside from a characteristicSS18 –SSX translocation identified in almost all cases, no genetic anomalies have been reliably isolated yet to drive the pathogenesis of synovial sarcoma. In the following review, we explore the structural units of wild-type SS18 and SSX, particularly as they relate to the transcriptional alterations and cellular pathway changes imposed by SS18 –SSX.Recent FindingsNative SS18 and SSX contribute recognizable domains to the SS18 –SSX chimeric proteins, which inflict transcriptional and epigenetic changes through selective protein interactions involving the SWI/SNF and Polycomb chromatin remodeling complexes. Multiple oncogenic and developmental pathways become altered, collectively reprogramming the cellular origin of syn ovial sarcoma and promoting its malignant transformation.SummarySynovial sarcoma is characterized by complex epigenetic and signaling landscapes. Identifying the operational pathways and concomitant genetic changes induced bySS18 –SSX fusions could help develop tailored therapeutic strategies to ultimately improve disease control and patient survivorship.
Source: Current Oncology Reports - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research