Transforming growth factor P1 is implicated in the failure of tamoxifen therapy in human breast cancer
1991

Transforming Growth Factor P1 and Tamoxifen Therapy in Breast Cancer

Sample size: 56 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): A.M. Thompson, D.J. Kerr, C.M. Steel

Primary Institution: Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh; Beatson Institute, Glasgow; MRC Human Genetics Unit, Edinburgh

Hypothesis

Does high expression of TGF-P1 in breast tumors correlate with the failure of tamoxifen therapy?

Conclusion

High levels of TGF-P1 mRNA in breast tumors may contribute to the failure of tamoxifen therapy.

Supporting Evidence

  • TGF-P1 mRNA expression was sustained at high levels in mouse xenografts treated with tamoxifen.
  • High TGF-P1 mRNA levels were found in 45 out of 56 human breast tumors.
  • High expression of TGF-P1 correlated with premenopausal status.

Takeaway

This study found that a substance called TGF-P1 in breast cancer tumors might stop a medicine called tamoxifen from working.

Methodology

The study examined TGF-P1 mRNA expression in a mouse model and in breast tumor tissues from patients who received tamoxifen.

Limitations

The study does not address the mechanisms of TGF-P1 activation or receptor function.

Participant Demographics

Patients aged 34 to 84 years, with a subgroup of 11 postmenopausal women treated with tamoxifen.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.05

Statistical Significance

p=0.05

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