Potential Role of a Novel Nuclear Matrix Protein (nmt55) as a Tumor Marker in Human Breast Cancer Invasion and Metastases
Abstract
The goal of this proposal is to test the hypothesis that loss of expression of a novel protein contributes to tumor growth, invasion and metastases, and its expression suppresses these biological events. We have identified, isolated and partially characterized a 55 kDa nuclear matrix protein from human breast tumor cells (hence forth referred to as nmt55). This novel protein is expressed in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) tumors but its expression is greatly reduced in ER- tumors. Decreased expression of nmt55 correlated strongly with tumor size (p<O.03) and loss of ER and PR (p<O.OOl). As tumor size increased, nmt55 protein expression decreased. Because increased tumor size is associated with metastases, we postulate that decreased nmt55 expression is associated with molecular and cellular changes linked to cellular differentiation leading to loss of ER expression, and development of hormone-independent tumor growth, invasion and metastases. We are currently investigating the function of nmt55 using biochemical and molecular biology approaches. The information derived from these studies will help determine the potential role of nmt55 as a marker of tumor progression and metastases Further, these studies may provide critical information needed for early detection of potentially metastatic tumors, improve diagnosis and prognosis and aid in developing strategies for therapeutic management and care of breast cancer patients.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADB274658
Entities
People
- Matthew Pavao
Organizations
- Boston University