P-glycoprotein Expression in Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): G.C. Wishart, J.A. Plumb, J.J. Going, A.M. McNicol, C.S. McArdle, T.Tsuruo, S.B. Kaye
Primary Institution: University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
Is P-glycoprotein expressed in primary breast cancer before therapy?
Conclusion
P-glycoprotein is expressed in both epithelial and stromal cells of untreated primary breast cancers.
Supporting Evidence
- P-glycoprotein was detected in 21 of 29 epithelial cell samples using antibody C219.
- P-glycoprotein was detected in 26 of 29 stromal cell samples using antibody C219.
- Immunostaining showed heterogeneous expression in both epithelial and stromal cells.
- Previous studies have shown varying results for P-glycoprotein expression in breast cancer.
Takeaway
This study looked at breast cancer samples and found a protein that might help cancer cells resist treatment, even before they get any drugs.
Methodology
Immunohistochemistry was used to detect P-glycoprotein expression in frozen sections of breast cancer samples using two monoclonal antibodies.
Limitations
The study's sample size is small and may not represent all breast cancers.
Participant Demographics
All participants were untreated breast cancer patients.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website