The Role of Matrilysin, A Matrix Metalloproteinase, in Mammary Tumorigenesis.
Abstract
The processes of mammary gland development and mammary tumor growth require extensive remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Proteins that degrade the ECM such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), are important during these and several other matrix degrading processes. We hypothesized that an epithelial specific MMP, matrilysin (MAT), is partly responsible for remodeling of the ECM during mammary development and tumorigenesis. To test our hypothesis, transgenlc mice expressing MAT under the control of the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) promoter/enhancer were generated to investigate if overproduction of MAT alters mammary development and/or mammary tumorigenesis. In this report we show that although overexpression of MAT does not alter normal mammary development, the presence of MAT does induce premature milk production in normal transgenic mammary glands. In addition, the expression of MAT in MMTV-Mat/neu double transgenic animals accelerates the onset and frequency of mammary tumorigenesis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA332235
Entities
People
- Laura A. Rudolph
- Lynn M. Matrisian
Organizations
- Vanderbilt University