BHLHE40 and neoplasm: Although others and we have also reported the expression of DEC1 in several tumour types (Ivanova et al, 2001; Li et al, 2002, 2003; Giatromanolaki et al, 2003), the pattern and level of expression of DEC1 in breast tissues and tumours have not been systematically investigated and the potential role in this tumour type is unknown.