Expression of the anti-metastatic gene nm23 in breast cancer
Author Information
Author(s): C. Hennessy, J.A. Henry, F.E.B. May, B.R. Westley, B. Angus, T.W.J. Lennard
Primary Institution: University of Newcastle upon Tyne
Hypothesis
The nm23 gene may suppress the metastatic phenotype in breast cancer.
Conclusion
High levels of nm23 expression are associated with a lower likelihood of lymph node metastases in breast cancer patients.
Supporting Evidence
- High levels of nm23 expression were associated with an absence of lymph node metastases.
- Low levels of nm23 expression were seen in poorly differentiated tumours.
- Loss of nm23 expression was associated with disease recurrence and poor patient survival.
Takeaway
This study found that a gene called nm23 might help prevent breast cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.
Methodology
nm23 expression was assessed using mRNA hybridisation and in situ hybridisation in human primary breast cancers.
Limitations
The study is limited to a specific population and may not generalize to all breast cancer patients.
Participant Demographics
The study involved 145 human breast cancer patients.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.032
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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