What gene is overexpressed in follicular lymphoma?

Follicular lymphoma is characterized by the overexpression of the BCL2 gene. This overexpression occurs due to a genetic translocation, specifically t(14;18), which juxtaposes the BCL2 gene on chromosome 18 to the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus on chromosome 14. As a result, BCL2 becomes constitutively expressed, leading to an anti-apoptotic effect that contributes to the survival of malignant B-cells. This mechanism is crucial in the pathogenesis of follicular lymphoma, as it allows these cells to evade normal apoptotic processes and accumulate, ultimately forming lymphoid tumors.

In contrast, while the other genes mentioned may have roles in other lymphomas or in other cellular functions, they are not specifically associated with the hallmark characteristic of follicular lymphoma in the same manner as BCL2. Therefore, the recognition of BCL2 as a critical player in the biology of follicular lymphoma helps in understanding its clinical behavior and the rationale for targeted therapies that may address this pathway.