 |
|
Researchers say estrogen can kill breast cancer cells once fueled by the hormone
December 07, 2005Fox Chase Cancer Center researchers say some breast cancer cells once fueled by estrogen can be killed by the same hormone. This raises the possibility that estrogen therapy after estrogen deprivation may overcome the cells' eventual resistance to hormone therapy. The finding by V. Craig Jordan, Ph.D., D. Sc., and his colleagues at Fox Chase is published in the December 7 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
Many breast cancer cells (called estrogen receptor-positive breast cancers) require estrogen for survival. Women with these types of breast cancers are treated with drugs that that block estrogen, such as tamoxifen, fulvestrant, or aromatase inhibitors, causing the cells to die in a process called apoptosis. However, over time, these cancer cells learn to adapt and become resistant to this therapy.
"Tamoxifen and other estrogen inhibition drugs have been remarkably successful in the treatment of hormone-responsive breast cancers," said Jordan, vice president and scientific director for the medical science division at Fox Chase. "However, cancer cells are smart and they figure out how to survive these treatments. We believe we've become savvy to their art. Our laboratory study demonstrates that these same breast cancer cells die when we re-introduce them to estrogen." Jordan was the leader in the development of the use of tamoxifen to treat breast cancer. He holds the Alfred G. Knudson Jr., M.D., Ph.D., Chair in Cancer Research at Fox Chase.
The mechanism by which estrogen promotes apoptosis is not well understood. To understand this process, Jordan and his colleagues developed a line of breast cancer cells, called MCF-7:5C. These cells already are resistant to estrogen withdrawal. When the researchers treated MCF-7:5C cells with very small concentrations of estradiol they underwent apoptosis. The researchers also tested these cells in mice to see how this process might influence existing tumors. Again, the exposure to estradiol caused the cancer cells to die.
"These laboratory data have important clinical implications, particularly for the use of aromatase inhibitors as long-term therapy," write the authors, "and they suggest that, if and when resistance to aromatase inhibition occurs, a strategy of treatment with estrogen may be sufficient to kill the cancer and control disease progression."
Fox Chase Cancer Center
The mechanism by which estrogen promotes apoptosis is not well understood. To understand this process, Jordan and his colleagues developed a line of breast cancer cells, called MCF-7:5C. These cells already are resistant to estrogen withdrawal. When the researchers treated MCF-7:5C cells with very small concentrations of estradiol they underwent apoptosis. The researchers also tested these cells in mice to see how this process might influence existing tumors. Again, the exposure to estradiol caused the cancer cells to die.
"These laboratory data have important clinical implications, particularly for the use of aromatase inhibitors as long-term therapy," write the authors, "and they suggest that, if and when resistance to aromatase inhibition occurs, a strategy of treatment with estrogen may be sufficient to kill the cancer and control disease progression."
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Breast Cancer Cells Current Events and Breast Cancer Cells News RSSUCLA researchers create 'fly paper' to capture circulating cancer cells
Just as fly paper captures insects, an innovative new device with nano-sized features developed by researchers at UCLA is able to grab cancer cells in the blood that have broken off from a tumor.
Early-stage, HER2-positive breast cancer patients at increased risk of recurrence
Early-stage breast cancer patients with HER2 positive tumors one centimeter or smaller are at significant risk of recurrence of their disease, compared to those with early-stage disease who do not express the aggressive protein, according to a study led by researchers at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
An exquisite container
In campy old movies, Lucretia Borgia swans around emptying powder from her ring into wine glasses carelessly left unattended. The poison ring is usually a confection of gold filigree holding a cabochon or faceted gemstone that can be broken to empty the ring's contents. It is invariably enormous - so large it is rather odd nobody seems to notice it.
New Chemo Cocktail Blocks Breast Cancer Like a Fence
Think of a protective fence that blocks the neighbor's dog from charging into your backyard. The body, too, has fences -- physical and biochemical barriers that keep cells in their place.
Diabetes drug kills cancer stem cells in combination treatment in mice
In a one-two punch, a familiar diabetes drug reduced tumors faster and prolonged remission in mice longer than chemotherapy alone by targeting cancer stem cells, Harvard Medical School researchers reported in the September 14 online first edition of Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.
New method for gene expression experiments akin to watercolor painting in water
Like oil and water, two water-based liquids can mingle without mixing in a new University of Michigan technology developed for biological experiments.
First compound that specifically kills cancer stem cells found
The cancer stem cells that drive tumor growth and resist chemotherapies and radiation treatments that kill other cancer cells aren't invincible after all.
Einstein researchers identify potential target for metastatic cancer
The deadliest part of the cancer process, metastasis, appears to rely on help from macrophages, potent immune system cells that usually defend vigorously against disease, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University report.
New cancer drug delivery system is effective and reversible
For cancer drug developers, finding an agent that kills tumor cells is only part of the equation. The drug must also spare healthy cells, and - ideally - its effects will be reversible, to cut short any potentially dangerous side effects.
1 gene that contributes to breast cancer's aggressive behavior identified
Aggressive forms of cancer are often driven by the abnormal over-expression of cancer-promoting genes, also known as oncogenes.
More Breast Cancer Cells Current Events and Breast Cancer Cells News Articles
 |
Clathrin-Independent Endocytosis of ErbB2 in Human Breast Cancer Cells: Peering Into the Mysteries of Clathrin-Independent Endocytosis by Daniel Barr (Author) Endocytosis is an essential cellular process required for functions including nutrient uptake, membrane recycling, and signal transduction. In comparison to the clathrin-mediated pathway, clathrin-independent pathways are poorly understood. New work is now beginning to reveal a picture of multiple non-clathrin pathways. Findings presented in this book identify that ErbB2 is internalized through a non-clathrin pathway in geldanamycin-treated SKBr3 human breast cancer cells. ErbB2 internalization resembled a newly described non-clathrin pathway termed the GEEC pathway, a pathway thought to be specific for internalization of GPI-anchored proteins. Suprisingly, ErbB2 and GPI-anchored proteins also co-localized with chimeric fusion proteins containing transmembrane domains,... |
 |
Pink Ribbon Cell Phone Charm by Century Novelty Show your Courage and Strength! The pink ribbon cellphone charm is perfect for your next event. These charms make great inspirational give a ways. 3" long. Tie to your phone antenna to show your support. Perfect for your next Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser. These party favors are perfect for your next Breast Cancer awareness fundraiser or event. Part of Decorations > Decorations |
 |
Breast Cancer Cell Gynecology Research Photographic Poster Print, 24x24 by AllPosters.com AllPosters.com is the world's #1 seller of posters, prints, photographs, specialty products and framed art. We're dedicated to bringing our customers the best selection of high quality wall décor that is perfect for their home or office. Browse our catalog of over 300,000 items that include entertainment and specialty posters, decorative prints, and art reproductions. Whether you're looking for your favorite movie or music poster, a framed Monet reproduction, or a print of the Eiffel Tower you will find it at AllPosters.com. Visit our Amazon store today at www.amazon.com/allposters to find Special Offers and search by subject category or artist. AllPosters.com provides unmatched service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We ship internationally to over 80 countries. Decorate your... |
![Cancer: Symptoms & Treatment History (1940s) [DVD]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41MjI5Gw4-L._SL160_.jpg) |
Cancer: Symptoms & Treatment History (1940s) [DVD] Cancer is an interesting short film that explains the signs and symptoms of cancer and its treatment. It features Mr. Bert Marshall, an average man who was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Aside from illustrations of the human anatomy and how cancer cells develop, the film also shows the disease is not only a physical burden but also an emotional weight by showing Mr. Marshall getting depressed and worried. Mr. Marshall is shown sitting on a bench at a park and deeply worried about telling his family about the disease. This educational film also features how cancer is treated by using x-ray fluoroscopy. Most importantly, the film also gave emphasis on identifying the "7 danger signs of cancer" which include (1) any sore that does not heal; (2) a lump or thickening of the breast or... |
 |
Cell Phone Strap - Breast Cancer Support Pink Ribbon - 8" by Trutex |
 |
EcoNugenics Pecta Sol, Modified Citrus Pectin, 90 Vegetable Capsules by EcoNugenics Our PectaSol® Modified Citrus Pectin is a natural product derived from the pith of citrus fruit, and modified to meet specific molecular chain and weight characteristics. This product is recognized primarily for its ability to promote healthy cell growth and proliferation. PectaSol® Modified Citrus is suitable for both men and women.* |
 |
Spongex Honolulu Breast Cancer Awareness Float - Raspberry by Spongex The stylish design of the Key West Pool Float provides excellent comfort and support. Item Features:Stylish quilted design provides greater comfort and support Ergonomic pillow cradles the head and neck for cushioning support Lightweight and easy to roll up for transporting to and from the pool |
 |
Recognizing Skin Signs of Systematic Disease/High-Dose Chemotherapy with Autologous Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Support for the Treatment of Breast Cancer (NCME Video 689) Also With: Irwin W. Braverman (Primary Contributor), Elizabeth J. Shpall (Primary Contributor) |
|
Clathrin-independent Endocytosis of Erbb2 in Human Breast Cancer Cells: by Barr Daniel (Author) | |
 |
LG Verizon VX8600 AX8600 Protector Hard Case Cover 62 by Cellular Connection |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |