HoxC8 expression in human colorectal cancer: a compensentory response of the cell to counter the transformation process?

Introduction: Homebox genes encode transcription factors that play important roles during early developmental processes. Some are expressed in adulthood and alterations have been linked to carcinogenesis. Both proto-oncogenic and tumor suppressor functions have been described for homeobox genes. Dysregulation of HoxC8 in tumors has been correlated with tumor progression in a limited number of studies. However, evidence for a tumor suppressor function for HoxC8 exists as well. We have investigated the functional consequences of expressing HoxC8 in cell lines and compared HoxC8 expression in patients with colo-rec…