Retinoblastoma: Revisiting the model prototype of inherited cancer

Hereditary retinoblastoma is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutations in the RB1 gene. Analysis of this rare condition has helped to elucidate the mechanisms underlying hereditary cancer predisposition in general. As identification of RB1 gene mutations has become a part of clinical management of patients with retinoblastoma, there is now a wealth of data. In this article, we summarize the current knowledge on the relations between the genotype and phenotypic expression. Moreover, detailed analysis of genotype-phenotype relations shows that hereditary retinoblastoma has features of a complex trait.