Identification of a novel gene, CDCP1, overexpressed in human colorectal cancer

We report the identification of a novel human tumor associated gene, CDCP1 (Cub Domain Containing Protein), which was identified using representationa l difference analysis and cDNA chip technology. The gene consists of eight exons, the upstream region of which neither contains a TATA- nor a CCAAT-bo x, However, a CpG island is located around the transcription start, which i s found in approximately 60% of known genes. The CDCP1 gene was mapped to c hromosome 3p21-p23 by fluorescence in situ hybridization, For expression pr ofiling real time quantitative RT - PCR was performed using cell lines and laser capture microdissected colon cancer biopsies. CDCP1 mRNA is approxima tely 6 kb and highly overexpressed in human colon cancer and lung cancer, C DCP1 represents a putative transmembrane protein, containing three CUB doma ins in the extracellular part most likely involved in cell adhesion or inte racting with the extracellular matrix.