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Acoustic Neuroma Gene
It is believed that the malfunction of a specific gene on chromosome 22 can lead to acoustic neuroma. When there are problems in this acoustic neuroma gene, a tumor can develop. At this point, it isn't known what causes the acoustic neuroma gene to lose its ability to function properly.
Acoustic neuroma research scientists believe that acoustic neuroma forms following the loss of function of a gene on chromosome 22. (A gene is a small section of DNA responsible for a particular characteristic like hair color or skin tone.)
Scientists believe that this particular acoustic neuroma gene on chromosome 22 produces a protein that controls the growth of Schwann cells. When this gene malfunctions, Schwann cell growth is uncontrolled, resulting in a tumor. Scientists also think that this gene may help control the growth of other types of tumors.
In most people with neurofibromatosis type 2, the faulty gene on chromosome 22 is inherited. For individuals with one-sided acoustic neuroma, however, some scientists hypothesize that this gene somehow loses its ability to function properly. At this point though, they do not know what causes the acoustic neuroma gene to lose its ability to function properly.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD