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DKC1

MIM.300126 Xq28

Dyskerin encoded by the DKC1 gene is a predominantly nucleolar protein essential for the formation of pseudouridine in RNA and the telomerase RNA subunit hTR.

Inherited mutations inactivating dyskerin cause dyskeratosis congenita, a syndrome with progeroid features characterised by skin defects and haematopoiesis failure, as well as cancer susceptibility.

Pathology

- germline mutations in

  • X-linked dyskeratosis congenita (MIM.305000)
  • X-linked Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome (300240) associating severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and bone marrow failure

- DKC1 is overexpressed in prostate cancers. (#19755982#)

  • DKC1 upregulation in prostate cancers is common and likely to be necessary for extensive tumour growth.
  • The phenotype of prostate carcinoma cell lines after dyskerin downregulation suggests that its most critical function is sustaining protein biosynthesis.
  • Compromised function and overexpression of dyskerin can both contribute to cancer development.

References

- DKC1 overexpression associated with prostate cancer progression. Sieron P, Hader C, Hatina J, Engers R, Wlazlinski A, Müller M, Schulz WA. Br J Cancer. 2009 Oct 20;101(8):1410-6. PMID: #19755982#