Loss of growth inhibitory effects of retinoic acid in human breast cancer cells following long-term exposure to retinoic acid
2000
Effects of Long-Term Retinoic Acid on Breast Cancer Cells
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Stephen R, Darbre P D
Primary Institution: The University of Reading
Hypothesis
Do retinoids remain effective against breast cancer cell growth when administered long-term?
Conclusion
Long-term exposure to retinoic acid leads to resistance in breast cancer cells, despite initial growth inhibition.
Supporting Evidence
- Both MCF7 and ZR-75-1 cell lines initially responded to retinoic acid but developed resistance over time.
- Oestrogen deprivation led to increased growth rates in the absence of oestradiol.
- Retinoic acid resistance occurred without loss of hormone receptors.
- The ability of retinoic acid to inhibit growth was lost despite high levels of IGFBP3.
Takeaway
If you keep giving retinoic acid to breast cancer cells for a long time, they can learn to grow again even though it used to stop them.
Methodology
The study examined the effects of all-trans retinoic acid on two breast cancer cell lines over time.
Limitations
The study was conducted in vitro, which may not fully represent in vivo conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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