Abstract: AbstractThe MLN64 gene, which is localized in q12-q21 of the human chromosome 17, encodes a novel transmembrane protein containing 445 amino acids. The C-terminus of MLN64 shares significant homology with the steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, while its N-terminal domain exhibits a function of targeting the protein to late endosomes. MLN64 is likely to be involved in cholesterol transport and synthesis of steroid hormones. MLN64 gene, coamplified with C-erbB-2, is overexpressed in certain breast carcinomas and exerts an influence on biological characteristics of breast cancer cells. The high levels of MLN64 observed in some breast carcinomas could contribute to the growth and progression of these tumors through increased intratumoral steroidogenesis, and is considered as a predictive factor of breast cancer prognosis.

Key words: MLN64, Breast cancer