General information for people with inherited STK11 mutations

Mutations in STK11 are rare. Both men and women can carry a mutation in the STK11 gene. Mutations in STK11 cause Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS). About 25% of people with STK11 mutations have mutations that did not inherit from either parent. These are known as "de novo" mutations. People with de novo mutations can pass them on to their children. 

People with an inherited mutation in STK11 have an increased risk for certain cancers, as outlined in the Cancer Risk section. There are guidelines for screening and prevention for certain cancers in people with an STK11 mutation. There may also be clinical trials available. See our Risk Management section for more information about screening options in people with an inherited STK11 mutation. 

People with an inherited STK11 mutation who have been diagnosed with cancer may qualify for specific treatment or clinical trials. Visit the Cancer Treatment section for more information.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) can cause traits that are not related to cancer. See our Other Considerations section for more information about this syndrome.

The name STK11 stands for "Serine/Threonine Kinase 11." The gene is also referred to as LKB1. It is located on chromosome 19. STK11 stops cells from growing and dividing too quickly.