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DCC gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

DCC gene

The DCC gene provides instructions for making the netrin-1 receptor, a protein essential for nervous system development and tumor suppression.

Normal Function

The DCC gene provides instructions for making a protein called the netrin-1 receptor, which is involved in the development of the nervous system. This protein attaches (binds) to a protein called netrin-1, and these two proteins fit together like a lock and key. The binding of netrin-1 to its receptor helps direct the growth of specialized nerve cell extensions called axons. Axons transmit nerve impulses that can signal muscle movement.

When the brain sends a signal to trigger muscle movement, the signal usually travels from one half of the brain to the opposite side of the body. The binding of netrin-1 to its receptor allows axons to develop this signaling pathway.

The netrin-1 receptor is also thought to act as a dependence receptor, which means it functions differently depending on whether or not it is bound to its protein. When the netrin-1 receptor is bound to netrin-1, it plays a role in nervous system development. When it is not bound to netrin-1, the netrin-1 receptor acts as a tumor suppressor, which means that it keeps cells from growing and dividing too fast or in an uncontrolled way. When the netrin-1 receptor is acting as a tumor suppressor, studies suggest that the netrin-1 receptor triggers the self-destruction of cells when they are no longer needed (apoptosis).

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Congenital mirror movement disorder

DCC gene variants (also called mutations) have been identified in people with congenital mirror movement disorder, a condition in which intentional movements of one side of the body are mirrored by involuntary movements of the other side of the body. These variants change single protein building blocks (amino acids) in the netrin-1 receptor or cause cells to produce an abnormally short version of the protein. Without functional netrin-1 proteins, the growth of axons during nervous system development is not properly directed. As a result, movement signals that originate in one half of the brain are transmitted to both sides of the body, leading to mirror movements.

Cancers

The loss (deletion) of the DCC gene and nearby genetic material has been found in the majority of colorectal cancer cases. This deletion is also found in other cancerous tumors but not as frequently. In the cancer cases that have been associated with the loss of the DCC gene, the deletion was not inherited and was only found in the tumor cells. Without the DCC gene, cells cannot produce the netrin-1 receptor. As a result, the netrin-1 receptor is not available to trigger apoptosis, resulting in the uncontrolled cell growth and division that leads to cancer.

Other Names for This Gene

  • CRC18
  • CRCR1
  • DCC_HUMAN
  • IGDCC1
  • MRMV1
  • netrin receptor DCC
  • NTN1R1
  • tumor suppressor protein DCC

Frequently Asked Questions

While there is no cure that reverses the genetic defect, management focuses on improving motor function and reducing the impact of mirrored movements. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can help strengthen coordination and fine motor skills. In some cases, botulinum toxin injections into overactive muscles may reduce involuntary movements. Regular monitoring by a neurologist and early intervention can improve functional outcomes and quality of life.
Patients with DCC mutations often show involuntary, mirrored movements of the opposite limb when they try to perform a voluntary action, such as moving one hand while the other hand moves in the same pattern. Other early signs may include mild motor delays, difficulty with fine motor tasks, and sometimes subtle speech or coordination difficulties. Early recognition usually occurs in infancy or early childhood when parents notice the mirrored movements during play or routine activities.
The diagnostic process typically starts with a detailed neurological examination and a family history review. If mirror movements are confirmed, a clinical geneticist may order a targeted gene panel that includes DCC, or a whole exome sequencing test. Once a variant is identified, a variant classification (pathogenic, likely pathogenic, or variant of uncertain significance) is performed, and the result is confirmed with Sanger sequencing in the patient and, if possible, in parents to determine inheritance.
Mirror movement disorder linked to DCC mutations is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. This means that a single copy of the mutated gene from an affected parent can cause the disorder in the child. However, some cases arise from de novo mutations, so a parent may not carry the mutation. Genetic counseling is recommended to assess recurrence risk for future pregnancies.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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