Endothelial Cells Induce EMT in Breast Epithelial Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Sigurdsson Valgardur, Hilmarsdottir Bylgja, Sigmundsdottir Hekla, Fridriksdottir Agla J. R., Ringnér Markus, Villadsen Rene, Borg Ake, Agnarsson Bjarni A., Petersen Ole William, Magnusson Magnus K., Gudjonsson Thorarinn
Primary Institution: University of Iceland
Hypothesis
Do endothelial cells play a role in inducing epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast epithelial cells?
Conclusion
Endothelial cells are potent inducers of EMT in breast epithelial cells with stem cell properties, which may contribute to the progression of basal-like breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- Endothelial cells were shown to induce a switch from E-Cadherin to N-Cadherin in breast epithelial cells.
- D492 cells exhibited increased migration and cancer stem cell characteristics when cocultured with endothelial cells.
- Blocking HGF signaling partially inhibited the endothelial-induced EMT in breast epithelial cells.
Takeaway
This study shows that certain cells in the blood vessels can help breast cells change into a more aggressive form, which is important for understanding how some breast cancers grow.
Methodology
The study used a 3D culture model to observe the effects of endothelial cells on breast epithelial cells and analyzed changes in cell morphology and marker expression.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on specific cell lines and may not fully represent all breast cancer types.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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