Multiple Genetic Alterations in Breast Cancer.
Abstract
The major purposes are: (1) Systematic studies on the expression of EGF receptor family. Heregulin. ER in breast tumor specimens and correlation of the expression with tumor stages and patient survival. Our hypothesis is that the combination of EGF receptor family, Heregulin, ER may be a better prognosis factor than each of these molecules individually. Therefore, expression of EGF receptor family, Heregulin, ER, in the same breast tumor specimens will be examined by immunohistochemical staining, and western blots. The relationship between expression of these molecules, tumor grades and patients' survival will be evaluated. (2) Potential paracrine and autocrine interactions between EGF receptor family and Heregulin in breast cancer cells. Potential paracrine and autocrine loops between EGF receptor family and Heregulin ligand will be tested by using expression vectors and model cell lines. (3) Effects of ER on malignant transformation phenotypes of HER-2/neu-overexpressing breast cancer cells. Since we have found that estrogen-stimulated ER can repress HER-2/neu gene expression, ER expression vectors will be used to modulate HER-2/neu expression in HER-2/neu overexpressing breast cancer cells. The effect of ER on transformation phenotypes of HER-2/neu overexpressing breast cancer cells will be examined. The potential effects of Tamoxifen, an estrogen antagonist, will also be tested in this system. (4) Effects of Rb on malignant transformation phenotypes of breast cancer cells. The Rb-expression vectors will be introduced into the breast cancer cells. The effects of Rb on HER-2/neu expression and transformation phenotypes will be analyzed. Potential relationship among Rb, ER and HER-2/neu will also be examined.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA320189
Entities
People
- Mien-Chie Hung
Organizations
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center