Fluid Transport Mechanisms in Breast Gross Cystic Disease
Abstract
The goal of this research is to develop a pharmacological strategy for reducing or eliminating the pathological accumulation of fluid that occurs in breast gross cystic disease (GCD). Over the last year, we have analyzed several of the transport proteins and intracellular signaling mechanisms that mediate the movement of fluid (and ions) across confluent monolayers of 31EG4 cultured mammary epithelial cells. We hope eventually to be able to analyze cells cultured from: (1) reduction mammioplasties in normal individuals; and (2) patients with gross cystic disease. In all cases, we will use antibodies and immunocytochemistry to identify the transport proteins that are located on the apical and basolateral membranes of these cells. At the same time, in a complementary set of experiments, confluent monolayers of each cell type will be mounted in modified Ussing chambers to measure the transport rates of the pumps, cotransporters, exchangers, and channels that are located at each membrane. The present preliminary experiments have provided the first measurements of fluid transport across any mammary epithelia. In particular, the magnitude and direction of the fluid transported across each preparation has been directly measured. As shown in the data (see below) we have been able to make solution composition changes and add secretagogues or transport inhibitors to the apical or basal baths in order to help identify which particular apical or basolateral membrane proteins and/or which signaling pathways mediate the vectorial transport of fluid across 31EG4 mammary cell line (Siaasted et al., 1993).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA366566
Entities
People
- Sheldon Miller
Organizations
- University of California, Berkeley