MYCN proto-oncogene, bHLH transcription factor (MYCN)

MYCN proto-oncogene, bHLH transcription factor (MYCN) encodes N-Myc, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, belonging to the MYC family of proto-oncogenes. N-Myc regulates expression of a wide range of genes that control cell proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and apoptosis, particularly during embryonal development and in the nervous system. Amplification or dysregulation of MYCN is a key oncogenic driver in several pediatric and some adult cancers, most notably neuroblastoma, where MYCN amplification portends a poor prognosis and is used as a diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker. While direct pharmacological targeting of MYCN remains challenging due to its "undruggable" nature, therapeutic strategies have focused on disrupting its function, stability, and regulatory networks. MYCN and its interactions play a central role in both normal development and cancer aggressiveness, highlighting significant therapeutic opportunities and challenges.

Other names

N-myc proto-oncogene proteinN-MycBHLHE37NMYCbHLHe37MYCNOTClass E basic helix-loop-helix protein 37FGLDS1MODEDMPAPAMYCNsORFMYCNsPEPODEDneuroblastoma MYC oncogenev-myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene neuroblastoma derived homologclass E basic helix-loop-helix protein 37

Inhibition of MYCN transcription and/or translation. Disruption of MYCN/MAX dimerization (prevents DNA binding). Degradation of MYCN protein (induced by some targeted therapies). Synthetic lethality approaches (targeting vulnerabilities in MYCN-amplified cells).