Genetic Disorders of Endocrine Neoplasia

It focuses on familial tumor syndromes for which the primary gene defect has been well characterized or recently identified. An overview of cloning strategies and gene characterization in cancer is combined with detailed discussions of clinical aspects and molecular features of heritable endocrine neoplastic diseases, such as MEN 1 and MEN 2 and Von Hippel-Lindau Disease. Studies on the PTEN gene, the first known phosphatase to lead to cancer when disrupted, are discussed in detail. Also included is the recent identification and partial characterization of one of at least two genes for Carney Complex, PRKARIA.
The authors place special emphasis on testing and screening strategies which now allow a much earlier identification of family members at risk. The challenge for the 21st century will be to develop equal progress in pharmacological prevention and cure based on the knowledge of the function of these susceptibility genes and their targets.