Regulation of MYC gene expression by aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling in colorectal cancer

Core Tip

Core tip: In colon cancer, mutations in components of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway result in inappropriate c-MYC proto-oncogene (MYC) expression. To understand colorectal carcinogenesis requires the identification of Wnt responsive DNA elements (WREs) that control MYC expression in colorectal cancer (CRC). Through efforts to characterize MYC WREs, a model has emerged where several of these WREs appear largely dispensable for intestinal homeostasis, but are instead “hijacked” by oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin signaling to drive CRC. These findings raise the intriguing possibility that these WREs may be targeted therapeutically as an alternative approach to treat individuals afflicted by CRC. In this review, we summarize the literature describing the identification of MYC WREs and discuss how those involved in colorectal carcinogenesis may be targeted to limit progression of CRC.