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Stromal changes in invasive breast carcinoma: an ultrastructural study
1Department of Pathology, University Medical School, Manchester, U.K.
The Journal of Pathology
|October 1, 1987
Summary
Breast cancer stroma contains various fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Myofibroblast activity correlates with tumor growth, suggesting a wound-healing-like process in desmoplastic reactions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- The tumor microenvironment, particularly the stroma, plays a critical role in breast cancer progression.
- Stromal spindle cells, including fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, are key components influencing tumor behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural characteristics of stromal spindle cells in infiltrating breast carcinomas.
- To correlate the features of these cells with the tumor's growth pattern and desmoplastic reaction.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was employed to examine the stroma of infiltrating breast carcinomas.
- Ultrastructural analysis focused on identifying and characterizing different types of stromal spindle cells.
Main Results:
- A spectrum of cells was identified, including resting fibroblasts, active fibroblasts, early myofibroblasts, and mature myofibroblasts.
- Myofibroblasts in loose stroma exhibited prominent organelles and secretory activity, while those in dense stroma showed features of a contractile state.
- The extent of myofibroblast proliferation was linked to the tumor's growth pattern.
Conclusions:
- The findings reveal distinct myofibroblast populations within breast carcinoma stroma, differing based on stromal density.
- The study suggests that cancer cell infiltration mimics wound healing, leading to desmoplasia.
- Myofibroblast proliferation is a significant factor in the desmoplastic response observed in breast carcinomas.