Modulation of plasma complement by the initial dose of epirubicin/docetaxel therapy in breast cancer and its predictive value
2011

Effects of Epirubicin/Docetaxel on Plasma Proteins in Breast Cancer

Sample size: 22 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Michlmayr A, Bachleitner-Hofmann T, Bergmann M, Oehler R

Primary Institution: Medical University of Vienna

Hypothesis

Does the protein expression profile in plasma samples from breast cancer patients change in response to the initial dose of epirubicin/docetaxel therapy?

Conclusion

The study found that the initial dose of epirubicin/docetaxel therapy modulates the expression of several plasma proteins, including IαI and complement components.

Supporting Evidence

  • The abundance of several IαI spots increased in nearly all patients after treatment.
  • Total plasma C3 levels decreased in response to the therapy.
  • There was a negative correlation between IαI levels and total plasma C3.

Takeaway

When breast cancer patients receive their first dose of a specific treatment, some proteins in their blood change, which might help doctors understand how the treatment is working.

Methodology

The study used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to analyze plasma proteins and measured total plasma C3 levels by immunonephelometry.

Limitations

The study did not identify the reactions of all IαI isoforms to therapy and did not correlate all IαI spots with therapy success.

Participant Demographics

Breast cancer patients receiving epirubicin/docetaxel therapy.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6606069

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication