Description: Gene fusion is a biological phenomenon that involves the joining of two or more genes, resulting in a genetic alteration that can lead to new functions or characteristics in an organism. This process can occur naturally, as a result of mutations or recombinations during cell reproduction, or it can be artificially induced in laboratories through genetic engineering techniques. Gene fusion can lead to the creation of chimeric proteins, which combine functional domains from different proteins, potentially altering their biological activity. This phenomenon is of great relevance in biomedical research, as it allows scientists to study the function of specific genes and their interactions in a cellular context. Furthermore, gene fusion is fundamental in the development of gene therapies and the production of recombinant proteins, which have applications in medicine and biotechnology. In summary, gene fusion is a key process in molecular biology that opens new possibilities for genetic manipulation and understanding the underlying biological mechanisms.
History: Gene fusion was first identified in the context of cancer in the 1980s when it was discovered that certain forms of leukemia were associated with the fusion of specific genes, such as the BCR-ABL gene. This discovery was crucial for understanding the molecular mechanisms behind some types of cancer and led to the development of targeted therapies. Over the years, the technique has evolved and has been used in various areas of molecular biology and biotechnology.
Uses: Gene fusion is used in biomedical research to study the function of specific genes and their interactions. It is also applied in gene therapy to correct genetic defects and in the production of recombinant proteins, which are essential in the manufacturing of drugs and vaccines. Additionally, it is used in the creation of animal models to investigate human diseases.
Examples: A notable example of gene fusion is the BCR-ABL gene, which results from the fusion of the BCR and ABL genes and is associated with certain types of leukemia. Another example is the use of chimeric proteins in CAR-T therapy, where parts of antibodies are fused with T-cell receptors to treat certain types of cancer.
