A neuronal function of the tumor suppressor protein merlin

Acta Neuropathol Commun. 2014 Jul 12:2:82. doi: 10.1186/s40478-014-0082-1.

Abstract

Mutagenic loss of the NF2 tumor suppressor gene encoded protein merlin is known to provoke the hereditary neoplasia syndrome, Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). In addition to glial cell-derived tumors in the PNS and CNS, disease-related lesions also affect the skin and the eyes. Furthermore, 60% of NF2 patients suffer from peripheral nerve damage, clinically referred to as peripheral neuropathy. Strikingly, NF2-associated neuropathy often occurs in the absence of nerve damaging tumors, suggesting tumor-independent events. Recent findings indicate an important role of merlin in neuronal cell types concerning neuromorphogenesis, axon structure maintenance and communication between axons and Schwann cells. In this review, we compile clinical and experimental evidences for the underestimated role of the tumor suppressor merlin in the neuronal compartment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Axons / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Neurofibromatosis 2 / genetics
  • Neurofibromatosis 2 / metabolism*
  • Neurofibromin 2 / genetics
  • Neurofibromin 2 / metabolism*
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Polyneuropathies / genetics
  • Protein Isoforms
  • Schwann Cells / metabolism

Substances

  • Neurofibromin 2
  • Protein Isoforms