MYCL

The MYCL gene encodes the MYCL proto-oncogene, a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor, also known as L-Myc. It forms heterodimers with MAX to bind E-box sequences (CACGTG), regulating target genes involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. MYCL crosstalks with PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways, amplifying their pro-growth signals.
Amplification of MYCL is prevalent in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and neuroblastoma, driving tumorigenesis. Direct targeting is challenging due to its non-enzymatic nature, but preclinical peptide inhibitors like OMomyc (disrupting MYCL-MAX interaction) show potential. Combination therapies with PI3K/MAPK inhibitors are also being explored to counter MYCL-mediated tumor progression.