Melanoma-associated antigen genes – An update

To date, dozens of melanoma-associated antigens (MAGE) have been identified. Based on the differences in tissue-specific gene expression and gene structure, the MAGE family has been divided into two big subfamilies: MAGE-I and MAGE-II. MAGE-I genes were identified as a group of highly attractive targets for cancer immunotherapy because of their wide expression in a variety of malignant tumors but silent in normal adult cells except germ-line cells lacking human leukocyte antigen (HLA) expression. However, little is known regarding the functions of MAGE family members in cell activities. In this review, we briefly described the classification of MAGE family members and their expression pattern in cancer. We also summarized the mechanism of MAGE activation and the functions of MAGE family members in cell cycle progression and apoptosis. We also discussed what is known of immunotherapy targeting MAGE family.