Function of Maximal Microvessel Density in Breast Tumor Metastasis.
Abstract
Maximum microvessel density (MMVD) in primary tumors is a sensitive prognostic indicator for many solid tumors, including breast. These data imply functional significance for the "hot spots" of microvessels which are quantitated in MMVD determinations. Since prognosis is determined by metastasis, functional significance of the "hot spots" in the process of metastasis is also implied. We hypothesize that the neovascular "hot spots" are the sites of metastasis and that gene expression in the tumor in the vicinity of the "hot spot" is important in the generation of the "hot spot" and in the process of metastasis. We are looking for differences in gene expression in the tumor in areas adjacent to "hot spots" when compared to other areas of the tumor. Our model system is FGF-1 transfected MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells growing as xenografts in nude mice. We have correlated metastasis with tumor size and are endeavoring to correlate MMVD with metastasis. We are developing methods of isolating RNA from microdissected tissue, amplifying it, and constructing cDNA libraries. When we have determined the "hottest spot" of microvessel density in the most metastatic tumors, we will microdissect areas of tumor adjacent to them and compare gene expression in areas not adjacent to hot spots.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA360397
Entities
People
- Sandra W. Mcleskey
Organizations
- Georgetown University