FAM84A Human

FAM84A was identified through genome-wide cDNA microarray analysis, which revealed its frequent upregulation in colorectal cancer tissues . This gene was not expressed in any of the 23 normal tissues examined, except for the testis . The gene was cloned by researchers who noted its 44% amino acid identity with FAM84B and 34.5% identity with the C. elegans cuticle collagen-12 precursor .

The expression of FAM84A mRNA and protein has been confirmed to be upregulated in colorectal carcinomas compared to normal colonic mucosa . Additionally, FAM84A expression has been observed in bladder, pancreatic, and lung cancers . Immunocytochemical studies have localized FAM84A to the subplasma membrane region, particularly in areas where cells do not have contact with neighboring cells .

FAM84A plays a crucial role in cell migration and morphology. Studies have shown that exogenous expression of FAM84A increases cell motility in NIH3T3 cells . The phosphorylation of serine 38 of FAM84A is associated with changes in cell morphology, suggesting that this post-translational modification is important for its function . Wound healing and transwell assays have demonstrated that FAM84A significantly enhances cell migration and wound filling .

The upregulation of FAM84A in colorectal cancer and its role in enhancing cell motility suggest that it may play a critical role in cancer progression . Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which FAM84A contributes to cancer cell migration and invasion could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for colorectal and other cancers.

The FAM84A gene is located on chromosome 2 at the cytogenetic location 2p24.3 . The genomic coordinates for FAM84A in the GRCh38 assembly are 2:14,632,717-14,651,916 .