Abstract 4105: Signaling network-based analyses of sonic hedgehog pathway components: predictions and possibilities

A subclass of Medulloblastoma shows considerable dependence on the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) pathway. Since cellular functions are a consequence of coordinated networks involving protein-protein interactions, it is imperative to explore different events cooperating with Shh entities in order to explore novel targets for medulloblastoma therapy. The Yes Associated Protein (YAP), a component of the Hippo pathway, has been previously established as a downstream target of the Shh pathway (Fernandez et al 2011). Several interesting gene targets featured in the networks developed by us using YAP overexpression in CGNPs. A concurrent upregulation of IGF2 and H19, both imprinted genes, was observed. Possible links between the Shh/Hippo pathways and IGF2 signaling also featured in the networks developed in the study. Important links to lipid metabolism, a process highly active in medulloblastomas and essential for the proliferation of CGNPs, were also predicted. The study includes results of signaling interactions between the Shh/Hippo pathways and entities from other relevant pathways that together play a role in medulloblastoma development and proliferation. Citation Format: Anshu Malhotra, Chad R. Potts, Africa Fernandez-Lopez, Rachel Rotenberry, Anna M. Kenney. Signaling network-based analyses of sonic hedgehog pathway components: predictions and possibilities. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4105. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4105