Figure 4.

Heterodimerization with Max is required for Myc’s oncogenic activity: (A) Upon heterodimerization, Myc/Max binds to the E-box and initiates transcription. This is a normal cellular process, but in cancer, Myc amplification further increases Myc activity; (B) Treating with Omomyc, a dimerization inhibitor that preferentially binds to Max or homodimerizes, displaces Myc at E-boxes and decreases Myc transcription. Other discussed Myc/Max inhibitors either disrupt Myc/Max dimers or block Myc’s interaction with DNA, but not both.