Molecular genetic mechanisms of basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer in human.Recent studies have indicated that mutations in sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway play an important role in the occurrence of BCC.The key members of SHH pathway include SHH,PTCH1,SMO and GLI.PTCH1 mutations is correlated with the disturbance in SHH signaling pathway.The overexpression of SMO as well as abnormal activities of the transcription factor GLI can upregulate the transcription and expression of genes related to cell proliferation and growth,and finally contribute to the development of BCC.The suppression of small-molecule inhibitors of SHH pathway on tumors may provide new ideas for the treatment of BCC. Key words: Carcinoma, basal cell;  Hedgehog;  Signal transduction