What is the translocation associated with mantle cell lymphoma?

The translocation associated with mantle cell lymphoma is t(11;14). This specific genetic alteration involves the transfer of genetic material between chromosome 11 and chromosome 14, leading to the juxtaposition of the cyclin D1 gene (on chromosome 11) next to the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus (on chromosome 14). This abnormality results in the overexpression of cyclin D1, which is a crucial regulator of the cell cycle. The proliferation of B-lymphocytes, characteristic of mantle cell lymphoma, is driven by the dysregulation of the cell cycle caused by this overexpression.

Understanding this mechanism is essential for both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to mantle cell lymphoma. Targeting the pathways influenced by cyclin D1 and its interactions can be a strategy for treatment, making knowledge of this translocation vital in the context of molecular biology and oncology.