Michigan State University researchers have developed a new genetic model for studying breast cancer, shedding light on cancer metastasis and paving the way for more targeted therapies.
A breakthrough in breast cancer research has emerged from the labs of Michigan State University (MSU), providing scientists with a promising new genetic model to study the disease’s progression and metastasis. This innovative approach is spearheaded by Eran Andrechek, a professor of physiology at MSU, whose work has focused on the elusive E2F5 gene.
The E2F5 gene, previously understudied, plays a significant role in breast cancer development, according to Andrechek’s latest research. Findings from his lab revealed that the loss of E2F5 alters the regulation of Cyclin D1, a protein linked to metastatic breast tumors.
This correlation between E2F5 removal in the mammary gland and tumor formation could pave the way for new understandings in cancer metastasis. The research has been published in the prestigious cancer journal Oncogene.
“One of the reasons that we’re really excited about this model is that it does something that most genetically engineered mouse models have not done in the past,” Andrechek said in a news release. “It’s metastasizing and, when it spreads, it’s going to places that human breast cancer goes to.”
The team’s genetically engineered mouse model stands out because it mimics the metastasis patterns of human breast cancer, spreading to organs like the liver or bones instead of just the lungs. This makes it a more relevant tool for studying human cancer.
The research took a significant leap forward with funding and accolades. Andrechek received a two-year grant of $300,000 from the American Cancer Society to support the continuation of his work.
Additionally, Jesus Garcia Lerena, the lead graduate student on this project, was awarded a fellowship through the Susan G. Komen ASPIRE grant program, which promotes research excellence among historically underrepresented communities.
The Andrechek lab utilizes a blend of bioinformatics and genetic models to probe the intricacies of breast cancer development.
“We don’t think it’s E2F5 that is directly causing these effects,” added Andrechek. “We think it’s some of the genes that it regulates that cause these effects. We’re seeing hundreds of genes. So, the part that gets tricky is to dissect out exactly which ones are causing the effects.”
By employing laboratory mice with specific gene knockouts, Andrechek’s team has been able to replicate the same mutations found in human cancers. This approach is especially relevant for breast cancer research, as it reflects the latency period seen in human cases, with mice developing tumors at an age equivalent to older women, the typical demographic for breast cancer diagnosis.
Understanding the genetic mechanisms of breast cancer subtypes opens the door to more effective and less toxic treatments. While emphasizing that this is just the beginning, Andrechek shared his long-term vision.
“We are nowhere close with this model to developing a targeted therapy. That is years down the road,” added Andrechek. “But if we can start to understand the genetics behind this and find a similar subtype in humans, then we can start tailoring therapy.”
As researchers inch closer to unraveling the genetic intricacies of breast cancer, this pioneering model holds the promise of transforming the future of cancer treatment.