Mini-Chromosome Maintenance Protein Family: Novel Proliferative Markers - The Pathophysiologic Role and Clinical Application

Abstract

Proliferation markers are among the most important biologic markers in the pathogenesis of many benign and malignant tumoral lesions and also some non-neoplastic diseases. Extensive studies have been conducted on this matter shedding light on the role of these markers in the pathogenesis of many of these lesions and their contribution to standard diagnostic protocols, determination of prognosis and even treatment monitoring of diseased cases. Cancer is among the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Determination and recognition of biomarkers that detect cancer in its early stages, monitor the disease progression or work as a specific marker for disease prognosis can boost our ability in confronting such conditions and improve cancer patients’ care by creating a personalized medicine for them. Assessment of the cell growth or proliferative signature of tumoral lesions is among the main parameters in recognition of the biologic course of cancer, prognosis and evaluation of the treatment course. At present, we focus on recently introduced proliferative markers; MCM protein family, their basic biologic role and short review of the clinical application.