Breast tumour cell-induced down-regulation of type I collagen mRNA in fibroblasts
1999
Breast Tumour Cells Affect Collagen Production in Fibroblasts
Sample size: 30
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Fenhalls G, Geyp M, Dent D M, Parker M I
Primary Institution: University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
Breast tumour cells modulate type I collagen gene expression in normal fibroblasts.
Conclusion
Breast tumour cells can down-regulate collagen mRNA and protein levels in fibroblasts, which may aid in tumour invasion and metastasis.
Supporting Evidence
- Collagen mRNA levels were elevated in stage I tumours compared to adjacent normal tissues.
- Collagen mRNA levels decreased in stages II and III breast tumours.
- Co-culture of tumour cells and normal fibroblasts resulted in down-regulation of collagen mRNA and protein.
Takeaway
Breast cancer cells can change how nearby cells make collagen, which might help the cancer spread.
Methodology
The study involved Northern analysis of RNA from breast tumour tissues and co-culture experiments with fibroblasts.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website