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[Antigenic structure of normal and malignant breast tissue]
Voprosy Onkologii
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Researchers identified 13 unique antigens in breast tissues and milk, including novel tumor-associated antigens. Some antigens, like lactoferrin, were found in a third of cancer patients, suggesting diagnostic potential for various tumors.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Context:
- The study investigated antigens present in normal and malignant mammary tissues, and breast milk fat globule membranes.
- Immune sera from immunized rabbits were used to identify and characterize these antigens.
Purpose:
- To identify and characterize novel antigens from mammary tissues and milk.
- To determine the specificity and distribution of identified antigens in normal, malignant, and other tissues.
- To explore the presence of specific antigens like lactoferrin and alpha-lactalbumin in cancer patients' sera.
Summary:
- Thirteen antigens were identified: 1 nuclear, 4 soluble, and 8 membraneous.
- Antigen specificity varied, with some found in multiple organs, some milk-specific, some organ-specific but persisting in malignancy, and one unique to malignant tissue.
- Lactoferrin and alpha-lactalbumin were detected in the sera of one-third of patients with diverse tumor types using immuno-enzymatic methods.
Impact:
- Identified potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and classification.
- Provided insights into the immunobiology of mammary tissues and breast milk.
- Highlighted the presence of specific antigens in cancer patients, suggesting avenues for further diagnostic research.