Functional Interactions in Transcription and Splicing of Ewing’s Sarcoma

Abstract

Ewing’s sarcoma (EWS) protein is a member of the TET (TLS/EWS/TAF15) family of RNA and DNA-binding proteins with unknown cellular role. EWS protein is encoded by the EWS oncogene on chromosome 22q12, a target of chromosomal translocations in Ewing’s sarcoma tumors. The exact mechanism of EWS participation in gene expression and pathogenesis of the resulting cancers is not defined. The binding partners of native EWS and EWS fusion proteins (EFPs) are described schematically in a model, an attempt to link the transcription with the splicing. The experimental data about the partnerships of EWS and EFPs are summarized, which may lead to better understanding of their function.