C14orf93 (RTFC) is identified as a novel susceptibility gene for familial nonmedullary thyroid cancer

The genetic causes for familial nonmedullary thyroid cancer (FNMTC) remain largely unknown. Through genetic linkage analysis and exome sequencing, C14orf93 (RTFC), PYGL, and BMP4 were identified as susceptibility gene candidates in a FNMTC family. By examining the expression and the oncogenic functions of these candidate genes, PYGL and BMP4 were excluded. We further characterized the functions of the uncharacterized gene RTFC in thyroid cancer. RTFC promotes thyroid cancer cell survival under starving conditions, and thyroid cancer cell migration. The R115Q, V205M and G209D RTFC mutants enhance the colony forming capacity of thyroid cancer cells, and are able to transform normal thyroid cells. In summary, our data suggest the roles of RTFC in thyroid carcinogenesis.