The down-regulated expression of 14-3-3σ may activate the other six 14-3-3 isoforms and they may take over the role of 14-3-3σ in the tumor genesis

Seven isoforms of 14-3-3 protein family have different functions in the cancer genesis and progress. It is found that six isoforms were up-regulated expression and inclined to sustain the cancer survival. Conversely, 14-3-3σ strongly promotes cancer apoptosis. Its down-regulated expression was found in many cancer tissues and thought to be an early event in the tumor genesis. Interestingly, no suggestions are made about the possible effect that the down-regulated expression of 14-3-3σ activated the other six 14-3-3 isoforms and they take over the role of 14-3-3σ in the tumor genesis. The inactivation of 14-3-3σ in the early stage of tumor genesis is a clue to trigger the other six 14-3-3 isoforms activation.