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Orphan nuclear receptors in breast cancer pathogenesis and therapeutic response

Rebecca B Riggins1, Mary M Mazzotta, Omar Z Maniya

  • 1Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and Department of Oncology Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3970 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA.

Endocrine-Related Cancer
|June 26, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Orphan nuclear receptors regulate key processes and are implicated in breast cancer. Understanding their role in mammary tissues could improve cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Endocrinology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Nuclear receptors are transcription factors regulating key cellular processes.
  • Orphan nuclear receptors (ONRs) lack known natural ligands but are vital for development and metabolism.
  • Several ONRs are implicated in breast cancer progression and therapy response.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the emerging roles of ONRs in breast cancer.
  • To highlight specific ONRs, including estrogen-related receptors (ERRalpha, ERRgamma), and others linked to clinical outcomes.
  • To propose the significance of understanding ONR function in mammary gland development for improved breast cancer management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on orphan nuclear receptors and breast cancer.
  • Focus on specific ONRs: ERRalpha, ERRgamma, COPUFs, NGFIB, DAX-1, LRH-1, and RORalpha.
  • Analysis of their involvement in embryonic development, metabolism, circadian rhythm, and cancer.

Main Results:

  • Orphan nuclear receptors play critical roles in normal and neoplastic tissues.
  • Specific ONRs are associated with clinical outcomes and resistance to therapies.
  • Estrogen-related receptors (ERRalpha and ERRgamma) are among those with emerging roles in breast cancer.

Conclusions:

  • Orphan nuclear receptors are crucial in breast cancer pathogenesis and treatment response.
  • Further research into ONR function in mammary gland development is warranted.
  • A deeper understanding of ONRs could lead to improved breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

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