FHIT is also known as
human accelerated region 10. It may, therefore, have played a key role in differentiating humans from apes. This gene, a member of the histidine triad gene family, encodes a diadenosine P1,P3-bis(5'-adenosyl)-triphosphate adenylohydrolase involved in
purine metabolism. The gene encompasses the common fragile site FRA3B on chromosome 3, where
carcinogen-induced damage can lead to translocations and aberrant transcripts of this gene. In fact, aberrant transcripts from this gene have been found in about half of all esophageal, stomach, and colon
carcinomas. Though the exact molecular function of FHIT is still partially unclear, the gene works as a
tumor suppressor as it has been demonstrated in animal studies. Furthermore FHIT has been shown to synergize with
VHL, another tumor suppressor, in protecting against chemically - induced lung cancer. FHIT also acts as a tumor suppressor of
HER2/neu driven breast cancer. == Interactions ==