The Role of DNA Methyltransferase in the Progression of Breast Cancer of a Hormone Independent Phenotype
Abstract
Investigating methylation events associated with estrogen receptor gene regulation will enhance our understanding of hormone resistance in breast cancer. Thus, studies were undertaken to examine the role of DNA methyl-transferase (DMT) in the progression of breast cancer to a hormone-insensitive phenotype. We have found that DMT protein levels tightly correlate with S phase fraction in ER-positive cells, whereas ER-negative cells express DMT throughout the cell cycle. Stable transfection of MCF7 cells with FGFs led to increased DMT expression that could not be accounted for by a shift in S phase fraction. However, acquisition of an estrogen independent phenotype, even in conjunction with elevated DMT levels, was not sufficient to promote ER gene silencing via methylation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADB259018
Entities
People
- Sharyl J. Nass
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University