Burkitt lymphoma demonstrates t(8;14) translocation. The molecular consequence of juxtaposing MYC to the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus is:
- A Constitutive overexpression of MYC protein driving uncontrolled cell proliferation ✓
- B Fusion protein with BCL2, preventing apoptosis
- C Loss of function of MYC as a tumor suppressor
- D Activation of BCL6, silencing differentiation genes
Correct answer: A. Constitutive overexpression of MYC protein driving uncontrolled cell proliferation
Explanation
In t(8;14), MYC on chromosome 8 is brought under the influence of strong immunoglobulin heavy chain enhancers on chromosome 14, causing constitutive transcriptional overexpression of MYC. MYC is a proto-oncogene transcription factor that drives entry into the cell cycle, ribosome biogenesis, and metabolic reprogramming. No fusion protein is formed; BCL2 rearrangement (t14;18) is seen in follicular lymphoma, not Burkitt. BCL6 rearrangements occur in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.