GOA, a novel gene encoding a ring finger B-box coiled-coil protein, is overexpressed in astrocytoma

Serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) was used to identify a gene named GOA (gene overexpressed in astrocytoma), which codes for a novel Ring fing er B-box coiled-coil (RBCC) protein. Northern blot hybridization showed ove rexpression of GOA in 9 of 10 astrocytomas. Except for kidney, in which hig h expression was found, expression levels in normal tissues were low and co mparable to normal brain. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated presence of GOA , with prominent nuclear staining, in astrocytoma tumor cells and astrocyte s of fetal brain, but virtual absence in mature astrocytes. Overexpression was not due to amplification, since amplification of GOA was only found in one of 65 astrocytomas. GOA was localized to 17q24-25, a region that is fre quently gained or amplified in a number of other tumor types. GOA contains two LXXLL motifs, which are thought to be important for nuclear receptor bi nding. Our data suggest an important role of GOA in the process of dediffer entiation that is associated with astrocytoma tumorigenesis and possibly wi th that of other tumor types as well. (C) 2001 Academic Press.