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Epithelial membrane antigen expression in breast fluids and 'witch's milk'
C J Williams1, A S Dion, J Carten
1Garden State Cancer Center, Center for Molecular Medicine and Immunology, Newark, NJ 07103.
Breast Cancer Research and Treatment
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) is present in breast fluids of non-lactating women and male neonates. Nipple aspirates offer a potential source for EMA tumor marker assessment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), also known as polymorphic epithelial mucin (PEM), is a cell surface glycoprotein.
- Understanding EMA expression in various breast tissues is crucial for its potential as a diagnostic marker.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and significance of EMA in breast fluids from non-lactating women and male neonates.
- To evaluate the potential of nipple aspirates as a source for EMA tumor marker assessment.
Main Methods:
- Immunoblot analyses were performed on breast fluid samples.
- Enzyme immunoassay was utilized to quantify EMA levels.
Main Results:
- Significant amounts of EMA were detected in breast fluids from non-lactating women (pre- and post-menopausal) and male neonates.
- EMA expression was observed even in the absence of full breast maturation ('witch's milks').
Conclusions:
- Breast fluids, particularly nipple aspirates, are a viable source for EMA detection.
- EMA's presence suggests its potential utility as a tumor marker in breast cancer diagnostics and monitoring.
- Full breast maturation is not required for EMA expression in breast tissue.