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Cell Reprogramming in Tumorigenesis and Its Therapeutic Implications for Breast Cancer
Pei-Yi Chu1,2,3, Ming-Feng Hou4, Ji-Ching Lai5
1School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 242, Taiwan. chu.peiyi@msa.hinet.net.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|April 25, 2019
Summary
Breast cancer heterogeneity arises from cell reprogramming. Targeting this process offers new therapeutic strategies for various breast cancer subtypes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Breast cancer is a heterogeneous malignancy with diverse subtypes, impacting incidence, treatment response, and prognosis.
- Tumorigenesis in breast cancer may involve the reactivation of mammary stem cells.
- Distinct subtypes necessitate tailored therapeutic protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on cancer gene-mediated cell reprogramming in breast cancer.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting cell reprogramming mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of molecular and cellular assays linking genetic/epigenetic alterations to breast cancer subtypes.
- Investigation of cell reprogramming (dedifferentiation, transdifferentiation) in mammary epithelial cells.
Main Results:
- Specific genetic/epigenetic alterations induce cell reprogramming in basal and luminal mammary epithelial cells.
- Cell state interconversion via reprogramming can generate mammary stem cell intermediates.
- This process contributes to the heterogeneity of breast cancers.
Conclusions:
- Understanding cell reprogramming mechanisms is crucial for elucidating breast cancer tumorigenesis.
- Targeting cell reprogramming presents a promising avenue for developing novel breast cancer therapeutics.
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