In Vivo Analysis of Alternative Modes of Breast Cancer Cell Invasion
Abstract
The purpose of this funded research program is to examine different modes of movement used by mammary tumor cells during local invasion and metastasis. The experimental results of year 1 primarily concern the characterization of tumor cell movement ex vivo. We have found that MMTV-neu and BRCA-1-/- mouse mammary tumor cells utilize both rounded (amoeboid) and elongated (mesenchymal) types of movement on type 1 collagen gels. The rounded and elongated types of movement were found to be dependent on Rho kinase (ROCK) and Rac1 activity, respectively. In addition, we have preliminary data suggesting that the elongated form of movement is driven by the fibrillar nature of type 1 collagen. This observation may have important implications for understanding the mechanisms behind local invasion in primary breast tumors. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) labelling of MMTV-neu tumor cells will facilitate the future analysis of tumor cell morphology and movement in vivo. The characterization of cell movement, and the elucidation of the mechanisms behind the different types of movement and invasion, may assist in the development of targeted therapies for blocking the metastatic spread of breast cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA502407
Entities
People
- Donald E. White
Organizations
- Institute of Cancer Research