VEGF-A Levels in Breast Tissue After Menopause
Author Information
Author(s): Greb R R, Maier I, Wallwiener D, Kiesel L
Primary Institution: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
Hypothesis
The regulation of microvascular functions and angiogenesis in breast tissue is dependent on the hormonal exposure of the breast.
Conclusion
VEGF-A expression levels decrease in normal breast tissue after menopause, but not in breast cancer lesions.
Supporting Evidence
- VEGF-A expression levels were significantly higher in premenopausal women compared to postmenopausal women.
- VEGF-A expression levels were inversely correlated with the patient's age.
- Menopausal status had no influence on VEGF-A expression levels in cancerous tissues.
Takeaway
After menopause, the levels of a protein called VEGF-A that helps blood vessels grow go down in normal breast tissue, but this doesn't happen in breast cancer.
Methodology
Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze VEGF-A expression levels in tumor and adjacent non-neoplastic breast tissue.
Participant Demographics
19 breast cancer patients, with a comparison between premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p=0.02
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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