Estrogens, Genetic Polymorphins and Breast Cancer Risk
Abstract
Although the precise cause of most breast cancer cases is unknown, much attention has been focused on the role of estrogen metabolism in mammary carcinogenesis. Aromatase, estrogen hydroxylase, and catechol-O- methyltransferase are key steps in the three major enzyme systems involved in the biosynthesis and degradation of estrogen. We hypothesize that polymorphisms in genes encoding these three enzymes are associated with breast cancer risk in Nigerian women. Specific Aims: 1) To determine the presence of polymorphisms in genes encoding aromatase, estrogen hydroxylase, and catechol-O-methyltransferase in Nigerian women with breast cancer; 2) To determine the role of polymorphisms in these genes in the susceptibility to breast cancer; 3) To compare our findings with that in African American women and Caucasians. Cases will be 250 women with confirmed breast cancer recruited from hospitals in Midwestern and Southeastern Nigeria. Population-based age-matched controls without hormonal disease or cancerous lesions will be recruited from the same environment as cases. Genotyping will be conducted at the University of Pittsburgh. Our long term goal is to increase our understanding of the etiology of breast cancer, and to reduce the burden of breast cancer by identifying susceptible women for earlier diagnosis and appropriate preventive measures and treatment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA423412
Entities
People
- Clareann H. Bunker
- Michael N. Okobia
Organizations
- University of Pittsburgh