TFAR19, a novel apoptosis-related gene cloned from human leukemia cell line TF-1, could enhance apoptosis of some tumor cells induced by growth factor withdrawal

Using the cDNA-representative differences analysis (cDNA-RDA) approach, we identified a novel gene, TFAR19 (TF-1 cell apoptosis related gene-19), from TF-1 cells undergoing apoptosis. The human TFAR19 encodes a protein which shares significant homology to the corresponding proteins of species rangin g from yeast to mice. TFAR19 exhibits a ubiquitous expression pattern and i ts expression is upregulated in the tumor cells undergoing apoptosis. Overe xpression of TFAR19 in tumor cells enhances apoptosis triggered by growth f actor or serum deprivation. We propose that TFAR19 may play a general role in the apoptotic process. (C) 1999 Academic Press.