ER/PR Status of the Originating Cell of ER-Negative Breast Cancer

摘要

The goal of this study is to test whether ER - breast cancers arise from ER. or ER+ mammary cells. We specifically hypothesize that ER is absent in the originating cell of ER-negative breast cancer. Although until now it has been technically difficult to test it, we have developed a unique mouse model based on the RCAS-TVA technology that allows us to trace the ER status of the cancer-originating cell. It is now possible to test this hypothesis in experimental mice. In this funding period, we have generated mouse lines and viruses for the experiments proposed, and have found that the cell origin of breast cancer affects the ER status of breast cancer. In addition, we have found that somatic activation of growth factor signaling induces estrogen- independent tumor initiation.