Role of Fetuin-A in Breast Tumor Cell Growth
Abstract
In this report, we have described the breeding protocol we have followed aimed at knocking out the fetuin-A gene in PymT+ transgenic black C57 mice to define the role of fetuin-A in breast cancer carcinogenesis and progression. The central hypothesis of this project is that fetuin-A is a major serum derived growth factor for breast carcinoma cells and creates a favorable environment for the metastatic spread of tumor cells to the lungs. So far we have managed to get PymT+/Fet-/+ heterozygous animals that are significantly protected from breast cancer. We therefore hope that the absence of both alleles in PymT+/Fet-/- mice will result in almost total protection of the animals from developing full blown breast cancer. The results are very encouraging and we hope to complete the critical studies by the end of this year. The main problem we have had is the slow pace of the breeding protocol in that most of the PymT+/Fet+/+ mothers cannibalize their pups and so it takes many attempts before we can move animals to experimental groups.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA486687
Entities
People
- Josiah Ochieng
Organizations
- Meharry Medical College