Identification and Characterization of Tumor Antigens Associated With Breast Cancer
Abstract
The host immune system can detect tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) existing on cancer cells. While TAA-based immunotherapeutic treatments for the eradication of cancer are being pursued, few TAAs have been defined. We have applied a serologically based strategy called SEREX to the identification of TAAs in the murine colon carcinoma cell line, MC38, and in human breast tumor tissue. We have identified two positive clones in MC38, one as a murine endogenous leukemia proviral envelope (env) and LTR sequence, and the other as the murine ATRX sequence. Northern blot analysis demonstrated high levels of expression of env in MC38 cells, whereas expression was absent in normal colonic epithelium. Southern blot analysis revealed several mutations at the DNA level. Northern blot analysis of ATRX demonstrated comparable levels of expression in normal versus MC38 cells, and sequence analysis indicated no mutations. Polynucleotide immunization strategies with these antigens are being pursued. A potential TAA from breast tissue has been isolated and is being characterized. These results demonstrate the potential of SEREX screening to identify tumor antigens which may be utilized as novel targets for cancer immunotherapy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADB244675
Entities
People
- Tracy A. Hampton
Organizations
- University of Alabama