Klotho gene: modern view on the structure and function. Possible mechanisms of antitumor action
Klotho gene was identified in 1997 by the group of scientists under the guidance of the professor Makoto Kuro-o. The name was received in the honor of the Greek goddess Moira. (Klotho- spinning thread of life).Initially, the attention of researchers was attracted by the relationship between the mutations in the klotho gene and phenotypical signs of aging in the species with mutant version of gene. In the following studies was shown that modelled hyperexpression of klotho gene conversely proposing an inhibitory activity on the phenotypical manifestation of aging and also on prolongevity of species life. Therefore, klotho gene was accounted as one of the representatives of antitumor genes. Moreover, further study allowed identification of other revelations of effects of klotho gene taking into account its antitumor action. The perspectives of klotho gene studies might outcome with the formation of new approaches to diagnostic and treatment of oncological diseases.