Cyclin E and chromosome instability in colorectal cancer cell lines

Aims/Background: The development of colorectal cancer depends on at least two distinct pathways involving genetic instability, namely: chromosome instability (CIN) and microsatellite instability. Cyclin E is involved in aneuploidy and several cancer types show an abnormal number of chromosomes. Methods: Cyclin E protein and mRNA values were analysed in human fetal skin fibroblasts and five colorectal cancer cell lines. Results: Cells with an aberrant number of chromosomes had higher cyclin E mRNA values and a significant increase in protein concentrations. Conclusions: These data suggest that cyclin E regulation is altered in aneuploid cells and is an important factor in the CIN pathway.