Cancer metastasis gene database Home
Cancer metastasis database
General information | Literature | Expression | Regulation | Mutation | Homolog | Interaction

Basic Information

Gene ID

8079

Name

MLF2

Synonymous

myeloid leukemia factor 2;MLF2;myeloid leukemia factor 2

Definition

myelodysplasia-myeloid leukemia factor 2

Position

12p13

Gene type

protein-coding

Title

Abstract

breast cancer

We previously described a gene signature for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) derived from patient biopsies. Selective shRNA knockdown identified ribosomal protein L39 (RPL39) and myeloid leukemia factor 2 (MLF2) as the top candidates that affect BCSC self-renewal. Knockdown of RPL39 and MLF2 by specific siRNA nanoparticles in patient-derived and human cancer xenografts reduced tumor volume and lung metastases with a concomitant decrease in BCSCs. RNA deep sequencing identified damaging mutations in both genes. These mutations were confirmed in patient lung metastases (n = 53) and were statistically associated with shorter median time to pulmonary metastasis. Both genes affect the nitric oxide synthase pathway and are altered by hypoxia. These findings support that extensive tumor heterogeneity exists within primary cancers; distinct subpopulations associated with stem-like properties have increased metastatic potential.