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Effects of synthetic glucocorticoids on breast cancer progression

Jia Meng Pang1, Yi-Chen Huang2, Shu-Pin Sun3

  • 1Institute of Biotechnology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan; Department of Medical Science, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.

Steroids
|October 16, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Glucocorticoids (GCs), like dexamethasone (DEX), show dual effects in breast cancer. Low-dose DEX inhibits tumor growth and metastasis, while high-dose DEX may promote cancer progression.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used in breast cancer treatment.
  • The role of GCs in tumor progression is complex and not fully understood.
  • Dexamethasone (DEX), a synthetic GC, is evaluated for its therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the dose-dependent effects of dexamethasone (DEX) on breast cancer growth, metastasis, and cell behavior.
  • To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of DEX action in different breast cancer cell lines.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 xenograft mouse models to assess tumor growth and metastasis.
  • Administered varying doses of DEX to evaluate its impact on cancer cell adhesion, migration, and invasion.
  • Investigated the role of microRNA-708 and Rap1B signaling in mediating DEX effects.

Main Results:

  • Low-dose DEX suppressed tumor growth and metastasis in vivo.
  • High-dose DEX enhanced tumor growth and metastasis in vivo.
  • DEX inhibited cell adhesion, migration, and invasion in a dose-dependent manner.
  • DEX-mediated inhibition involved microRNA-708 and Rap1B signaling in MDA-MB-231 cells, but not in MCF-7 cells.

Conclusions:

  • Dexamethasone exhibits a dose-dependent, double-edged sword effect in breast cancer.
  • Low concentrations of DEX may be beneficial for inhibiting tumor progression and metastasis.
  • High concentrations of DEX could potentially promote breast cancer progression, warranting careful clinical consideration.
Keywords:
Breast cancerGlucocorticoidsMetastasisRap1BmicroRNA-708

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