Rearranged L-Myc Fusion (RLF)

In 2 independent small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) cell lines, Makela et al. (1991) found similar novel proteins antigenically related to LMYC. cDNAs corresponding to these proteins were cloned and shown to encode chimeric polypeptides with amino-terminal sequences from a novel gene named RLF (rearranged LMYC fusion) joined to the LMYC protein.Makela et al. (1991) presented the preliminary characterization of the RLF/LMYC fusion gene which has been found only in cells with an amplified LMYC gene. The presence of independent genetic lesions caused the formation of identical chimeric RLF/LMYC proteins and suggested a role for the fusion protein in the development of tumors.