The Reprimo Gene Family: A Novel Gene Lineage in Gastric Cancer with Tumor Suppressive Properties.

The reprimo () gene family is a group of single exon genes present exclusively within the vertebrate lineage. Two out of three members of this family are present in humans: and (). induces cell cycle arrest at G2/M in response to p53 expression. Loss-of-expression of is related to increased cell proliferation and growth in gastric cancer. This evidence suggests that has tumor suppressive properties. However, the molecular mechanisms and signaling partners by which exerts its functions remain unknown. Moreover, scarce studies have attempted to characterize , and its functionality is unclear. Herein, we highlight the role of the gene family in gastric carcinogenesis, as well as its potential applications in clinical settings. In addition, we summarize the current knowledge on the phylogeny and expression patterns of this family of genes in embryonic zebrafish and adult humans. Strikingly, in both species, is expressed primarily in the digestive tract, blood vessels and central nervous system, supporting the use of zebrafish for further functional characterization of . Finally, drawing on embryonic and adult expression patterns, we address the potential relevance of and in cancer. Active investigation or analytical research in the coming years should contribute to novel translational applications of this poorly understood gene family as potential biomarkers and development of novel cancer therapies.