Significance of Pathways Leading to RhoC Overexpression in Breast Cancer
Abstract
Tumor biology is a recognized determinant of tumor behavior, including growth rate, motility and metastatic potential, and therapeutic resistance. This project was funded to investigate the regulation and expression of an excellent marker for aggressive breast tumors: RhoC-GTPase. When overactive, RhoC transforms mammary epithelial cells into a highly motile and invasive phenotype. We hypothesize that RhoC overexpression may be regulated by the transcription factor NF-kappa B and that at the same time RhoC is overexpressed the tumor also acquires therapy resistance. The objective of this study is to utilize existing breast cancer cohorts with tumor tissue and treatment response data available to assess the correlation between NF-kappa B and RhoC, individually and in combination, to treatment response. The specific aims of the project are to determine 1) if RhoC and NF-kappa B are correlated; 2) if RhoC and NF-kappa B are associated, individually and in combination, with aggressive breast cancer; and 3) if NF-kappa B and RhoC are associated with therapy resistance. Human subjects review was completed for the project the end of February 2005. Tumor array protocols have been written and pathological specimens are currently being collected. Subjects have been identified and recurrence information has been abstracted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA436938
Entities
People
- Sharon H. Alford
- Sofia D Merajver
- Stephen Gruber
Organizations
- University of Michigan