Gene STK11
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Also known as
LKB1, PJS, hLKB1Overview
STK11 (Serine/Threonine Kinase 11) is a gene that encodes a protein called LKB1 (Liver Kinase B1). This protein acts as a tumor suppressor and plays a critical role in maintaining the stability of the cell cycle and preventing the development of cancer. LKB1 is involved in the regulation of cell growth and division by phosphorylating and activating several downstream proteins that control cell cycle progression.
Mutations in the STK11 gene have been associated with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), an inherited disorder characterized by the development of benign tumors in the digestive tract and the presence of dark freckles around the mouth, fingers and toes. PJS is an autosomal dominant disorder, meaning that an individual with one copy of the mutant gene will develop the disorder.
In addition, LKB1 mutations are also found in several types of cancer, such as lung, ovarian and colorectal cancer, where they tend to act as a tumor suppressor, that is, when LKB1 is lost or inactivated, it leads to cancer development.