Function of the Alpha6 in Breast Carcinoma
Abstract
Breast carcinoma invasion is a complex process that involves directed migration and localized proteolysis, as well as the ability of breast tumor cells to survive. The research accomplished during Year 4 of this grant has yielded considerable insight into the mechanisms that underlie the survival and migration of breast carcinoma cells. A key component of these mechanisms is the integrin alpha 6 beta 4. Expression of this integrin has been linked to the progression of breast cancer and correlated with poor prognosis. At a mechanistic level, our work has established that this integrin regulates critical signaling pathways involved in both survival and migration that substantiate its involvement in breast cancer progression. These pathways are the PI3-K/Akt pathway, as well pathways involving the Rho GTPases. Importantly, our work has shown that alpha 6 beta 4 can function in concert with growth factor receptors implicated in breast cancer progression such as erBb2. As stated in previous progress reports, elucidation of such pathways provides specific targets for therapeutic intervention.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA391918
Entities
People
- Arthur M Mercurio
Organizations
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center