Endocrine Abstracts

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway abnormalities, specifically rearrangements (RET/PTC) or activating mutations (RAS or BRAF), are highly prevalent in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs). Constitutive activation of this signaling cascade causes sustained phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). DUSP5, which is positively regulated by ERK signaling, acts as a negative regulator of its activity. We have previously shown that DUSP5 is overexpre...

CNC is an autosomal dominant multiple neoplasia syndrome, responsible mainly for cardiac myxomas, pigmented skin lesions and endocrine tumors (acromegaly, thyroid and testicular neoplasms and primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease: PPNAD). The PRKAR1A gene was previously found to be mutated in about 41% of CNC kindreds. Most mutations lead to nonsens mediated mRNA decay and preclude expression of the mutant protein. 102 patients (64 with PPNAD and 38 with CNC)...

ACTH-independent macronodular hyperplasia (AIMAH) affects both adrenals, and familial forms are reported, suggesting a genetic origin. Rare mutations have been reported in several genes, including Gs alpha (GNAS), Phosphodiesterase 11A (PDE11A), Fumarate Hydratase (FH), and the Glucocorticoids receptor (GR).Objective: To assess the prevalence known genes mutations, and identify new candidate genes in AIMAH.Design and methods: Germl...

Illicit expression of membrane receptors for circulating regulatory factors, such as gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), luteinizing hormone (LH) and serotonin (5-HT) receptors, has been well documented in ACTH-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasias (AIMAHs) causing Cushing’s syndrome. In addition, we have observed an abnormal expression of ACTH in some steroidogenic cells in two AIMAH tissues. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of local pro...