nm23: Unraveling its biological function in cell differentiation

Tumor suppressor genes have a pivotal role in normal cells regulating cell cycle processes negatively. Furthermore, the inhibition of cell proliferati on is a crucial step in the achievement of cell differentiation. Increasing evidence suggests that the nm23 genes, initially documented as suppressors of the invasive phenotype in some cancer types, are involved in the contro l of normal development and differentiation. In this review, we summarize s ome data concerning the involvement of the nm23 genes in development and di fferentiation, attempting to delineate an overall view of many facets of th eir biological role. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.