MECHANISMS OF INDUCTION OF SKIN CANCER BY UV RADIATION

Holly Soehnge, Allal Ouhtit and Honnavara N. Ananthaswamy

Department of Immunology, The University of Texas M D Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Box 178, Houston, TX 77030

Received 10/20/97 Accepted 10/24/97

6. PERSPECTIVE

Recent research has aided in the understanding of the mechanisms by which UV radiation induces skin cancer. Work in other systems, including insect as well as mammalian systems, has added useful information for the elucidation of the complex effects of UV radiation on humans. Continued efforts will result in a greater understanding of the genetic and immune suppression pathways involved in the function of tumor suppressor and oncogenes that are now known, as well as genes (caretakers and gatekeepers) yet to be discovered. The efforts of research in skin cancer may help to increase overall awareness of the harmful effects of UV exposure and result in better methods of skin cancer prevention and treatment.