Molecular genetics of gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumors.

To elucidate the molecular background of sporadic gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumors, several investigations into chromosomal alterations and allelic imbalances have identified several chromosomal regions of interest. These regions might harbor candidate genes important in tumor development and progression. However, only a small number of genes have been thoroughly analyzed, and only very few were shown to be altered in a substantial subset of tumors. Therefore, we are far from understanding the molecular mechanisms of tumor initiation and progression in gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumors, although some "molecular patterns" are currently emerging. In this review, chromosomal alterations, that is, allelic losses and gene mutations, identified in gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumors are briefly summarized. Molecular differences among various subtypes of gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumors are highlighted in view of their role as indicators of separate genetic pathways.