Characterization of the Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene, BRCA2
Abstract
To determine the expression pattern and function of the breast cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA2, we have developed specific immunological reagents against BRCA2. Using these antibodies, we have determined that BRCA2 protein is not detectable in most tissue types, including breast epithelium, suggesting that BRCA2 is present in very low amounts. However, we have demonstrated strong reactivity of our antibodies in differentiating epithelium, indicating that BRCA2 may play a role in cellular differentiation. Estrogen-induced mitogenesis has been explored at the levels of estrogen receptor mediated transcription and the stimulation of cytoplasmic signaling cascades. Activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase cascade and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway are essential for cell cycle progression to occur in response to estrogen. Inhibition of these pathways leads to a cell cycle block early in the G1 stage of the cell cycle between the induction of immediate early gene expression and the increase in cyclin Dl protein levels.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADB244802
Entities
People
- Edward K. Lobenhofer
Organizations
- Duke University Hospital