Origin of Prostate Cancer-Associated Stroma: Epithellal Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)

Abstract

Our objective was to explore the hypothesis that prostate cancer-associated stromal cells are derived from malignant epithelium by the process referred to as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The first aim was to try to generate fibroblasts from primary cultures of prostate cancer cells. Despite trying several approaches, including treatment with a classic inducer of EMT, transforming growth factor (TGF), we saw no evidence of generation of fibroblasts. Aim 2 was to search for evidence of EMT in prostate cancer stroma, and here also we saw no evidence of EMT. Finally, our 3rd aim was to determine whether the properties of cancer-derived stromal cells are consistent with their origin by EMT. We performed cDNA microarray analyses to accomplish this aim and identified expression of particular genes whose activities may be related to EMT. Overall, our results do not strongly support the hypothesis that prostate cancer stroma arises from the malignant epithelium by EMT. However, alternative explanations for our lack of supporting evidence can be put forth that suggest future studies to continue to explore this hypothesis.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2006
Accession Number
ADA451366

Entities

People

  • Donna M. Peehl

Organizations

  • Stanford University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Androgen Receptors
  • Biological Factors
  • Biological Sciences
  • Cell Movement
  • Cell Physiological Processes
  • Cells
  • Chemistry
  • Culture Techniques
  • Epithelial Cells
  • Gene Expression
  • Growth Factors
  • Microarray Analysis
  • Neoplasms
  • Peptide Growth Factors
  • Peptides
  • Prostate Cancer
  • Proteins

Readers

  • Molecular Biology and Genetics
  • Systems Analysis and Design