The gene encoding for the subunit B of the mitochondrial enzyme succinate dehydrogenase (SDHB) is the most important contributor to hereditary malignant/metastatic phaeochromocytoma (occurs in 10%) and paraganglioma (occurs in >50%).
Mutations in the genes for other SDH subunits – D and HAF2 also appear to be related to paragangliomas.
These mutations are autosomal dominant and can be inherited in 50% of offspring of affected patients. The risk of carrying these gene mutations and the development of phaeochromocytomas or paragangliomas is variable and dependent on the ‘penetrance’ of the mutation.
Walk, run, or ride this March4NETs!
For its third year, March4NETs will run throughout March 2026.
Get involved and support the 31,000 Australians living with neuroendocrine cancer.
