Characteristics of Alu Repeats and Their Relationships with Malignant Tumors / 中国普外基础与临床杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the molecular structures and functions of Alu repeats,and its relationships with malignant tumors. Methods Advances in molecular biology and oncology of Alu repeats in recent years had been reviewed. Results Homologous recombination between Alu repeats may result in various genetic exchanges,including duplications, deletions and translocations,cause a series of malignancy alteration by activating some oncogenes. Conclusion Alu repeats as a sort of multifunction regulatory sequences may play an important role during the carcinogenesis and progression of some tumors.