Collagen Density and Breast Cancer: A Study on Tumor Formation and Progression
Author Information
Author(s): Paolo P Provenzano, David R Inman, Kevin W Eliceiri, Justin G Knittel, Long Yan, Curtis T Rueden, John G White, Patricia J Keely
Primary Institution: University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
Hypothesis
Increasing collagen density in the mammary gland promotes tumorigenesis.
Conclusion
Increased stromal collagen is causally linked to mammary tumor formation and metastasis.
Supporting Evidence
- Increased stromal collagen significantly increases tumor formation approximately three-fold.
- Collagen-dense tissues result in a more invasive tumor phenotype.
- Live imaging techniques reveal that local invasion is facilitated by collagen re-organization.
Takeaway
More collagen in breast tissue can lead to more tumors and make them spread faster.
Methodology
The study used a bi-transgenic mouse model with increased stromal collagen to analyze tumor formation and progression.
Limitations
The model may have defects in matrix remodeling that could influence results.
Participant Demographics
Mice used in the study included Col1a1tmJae and PyVT strains.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.00001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.00001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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