Breast Carcinogenesis: Stroma-Epithelium Interactions
Abstract
A complex network of signals between the stroma, the extracellular matrix and the epithelium, and by hormones acting systemically, drive the mammary gland development and function. The tissue organization field theory (TOFT) proposes that alterations of the reciprocal interactions between stroma and epithelium initiate the process of neoplastic transformation of epithelial cells. Our goal is to assess whether the primary target of the carcinogen N-nitroso-methylurea (NMU) is the epithelium, the stroma or both through a protocol of tissue recombination by transplanting mammary gland epithelial cells (MGEC) into mammary gland fat pads (MGFP) previously cleared of epithelium. The animals were divided into 6 groups: (1) NMu-exposed stroma and vehicle (VEH)-exposed MGEC; (2) NMU exposed stroma and NMU-exposed MGEC; (3) VEH-exposed stroma and NMU-exposed MGEC; (4) VEH- exposed stroma and VEH-exposed MGEC; (S) positive control (intact virgin rat exposed to NMU); (6) negative control (exposed to VEH). Results: the tumor incidence was Gl 83.3%, G2 85.7%, 03, 4 and 6 0%, OS 100%. Our results show that the stroma, rather than the epithelial cells, may be responsible for the development of a neoplasia. This novel concept in carcinogenesis will provide clues to be applied to more rational study of breast cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADB284034
Entities
People
- Maricel V. Maffini
Organizations
- Tufts University