Definition

A gene that makes a protein that controls the activity of certain genes that help white blood cells mature. Mutations (changes) in the RARA gene can occur when a piece of the chromosome containing the RARA gene breaks off and joins with a gene called PML on another chromosome. These changes may cause too many immature white blood cells to build up in the blood and bone marrow. This can lead to an aggressive (fast-growing) type of acute myeloid leukemia called acute promyelocytic leukemia. The protein made by the RARA gene is a type of transcription factor. Also called retinoic acid receptor alpha gene.