MOLECULAR MARKERS AND THEIR ROLE IN WILMS TUMOR

Abstract

Wilms tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, is a pediatric kidney cancer that is one of the most treatable solid tumors in children. However, in adults, Wilms tumor is a rare and often aggressive malignancy, with a less favorable prognosis compared to its pediatric counterpart. (Huszno et al., 2013) Understanding the molecular landscape of Wilms tumor is crucial for improving treatment strategies and patient outcomes. One of the key molecular markers in Wilms tumor is the WT1 gene, which plays a crucial role in regulating normal differentiation in various organs. Loss or overexpression of WT1 can result in different phenotypic consequences depending on the status of cellular differentiation, as well as its oncogenic or tumor-suppressor effect. In addition to WT1, other important markers in Wilms tumor include WT-2, WTCD34, p53, Ki-67, Bcl2, miR-100-5p, and miR-130b-3p (Hamilton & Shamberger, 2012). Patients with certain congenital anomalies, such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, WAGR syndrome, and Denys-Drash syndrome, have an increased risk of developing Wilms tumor (Varan, 2008). Recent advances in our understanding of Wilms tumor biology have had a significant impact on clinical treatment