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Updated: May 8, 2026
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Optimization of a Multiplex RNA-based Expression Assay Using Breast Cancer Archival Material
Published on: August 1, 2018
Grading breast cancer tissues using molecular portraits
Niclas Olsson1, Petter Carlsson, Peter James
1Department of Immunotechnology and CREATE HEALTH, Lund University, Medicon Village, SE-223 81 Lund, Sweden;
Molecular & Cellular Proteomics : MCP
|August 29, 2013
Summary
Researchers identified novel protein signatures for breast cancer histological grades using proteomics. These molecular portraits improve tumor classification and prognosis, potentially aiding metastasis-free survival prediction.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Proteomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Assessing breast cancer progression and prognosis is challenging with current methods.
- Pathological grading, based on nuclear grade, tubule formation, and mitotic rate, indicates tumor aggressiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the first protein signatures associated with histological grades of breast cancer.
- To develop molecular portraits for improved breast cancer classification and prognostication.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a novel affinity proteomics approach combining nine antibodies and label-free LC-MS/MS.
- Profiled 52 breast cancer tissue samples, generating quantified proteomic maps of 1,388 proteins.
Main Results:
- Defined in-depth molecular portraits of histologically graded breast cancer tumors.
- Developed a 49-plex protein signature accurately discriminating between histological grades 1, 2, and 3.
- Identified biologically relevant proteins supporting tumor microenvironment remodeling hypotheses.
- Corroborated protein signature with meta-analysis of independent transcriptional data.
Conclusions:
- Novel protein signatures enable precise molecular classification of breast cancer histological grades.
- These findings support the potential for improved prognostication and estimation of metastasis-free survival.
- Molecular portraits offer a pathway towards enhanced breast cancer management.
