BCL-2 GENE REARRANGEMENTS IN FOLLICULAR LYMPHOMAS

The t(14;18) chromosome translocation is the cytogenetic hallmark of follicular lymphomas. The study of this translocation at the molecular level has led to the discovery of a new oncogene, bcl-2. This gene is the first member of a new class of oncogenes: the regulators of programmed cell death. It is activated by the translocation-induced gene rearrangement, and the malignant cells become virtually immortal. Detection of bcl-2 gene rearrangements is important not only for diagnosis, but also for monitoring patients with follicular lymphomas throughout the course of their disease.