Immunohistochemical distribution of a breast cancer-associated glycoprotein

The tissue distribution and specificity of a glycoprotein of M(r) 230,000 kDa which has previously been identified from breast carcinomas in culture and shown to be tumour-associated, has been assessed using a polyclonal antiserum. A wide range of tissues has been examined immunohistochemically. The tissue distribution of the glycoprotein show differences between normal, benign and malignant breast and other epithelial tissues, and are clearly specific for epithelial cells. This glycoprotein as detected by the polyclonal antiserum P5252-2, was either absent or showed a minimal presence in normal breast tissues. Evidence of the expression of the glycoprotein in hyperplastic breast was observed but was considerably less than that seen for carcinomas, for which 70% had greater than 50% of cells exhibiting reactivity with P5252-2. There was no relationship with grade or node status. Similar striking differences in glycoprotein expression between non-neoplastic and neoplastic tissue were observed for stomach, large intestine, thyroid and to lesser extent ovary. The differences in the expression of this glycoprotein between normal and malignant tissues is of obvious clinical and pathological potential

Critical research gaps and translational priorities for the successful prevention and treatment of breast cancer

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer remains a significant scientific, clinical and societal challenge. This gap analysis has reviewed and critically assessed enduring issues and new challenges emerging from recent research, and proposes strategies for translating solutions into practice. METHODS: More than 100 internationally recognised specialist breast cancer scientists, clinicians and healthcare professionals collaborated to address nine thematic areas: genetics, epigenetics and epidemiology; molecular pathology and cell biology; hormonal influences and endocrine therapy; imaging, detection and screening; current/novel therapies and biomarkers; drug resistance; metastasis, angiogenesis, circulating tumour cells, cancer 'stem' cells; risk and prevention; living with and managing breast cancer and its treatment. The groups developed summary papers through an iterative process which, following further appraisal from experts and patients, were melded into this summary account. RESULTS: The 10 major gaps identified were: (1) understanding the functions and contextual interactions of genetic and epigenetic changes in normal breast development and during malignant transformation; (2) how to implement sustainable lifestyle changes (diet, exercise and weight) and chemopreventive strategies; (3) the need for tailored screening approaches including clinically actionable tests; (4) enhancing knowledge of molecular drivers behind breast cancer subtypes, progression and metastasis; (5) understanding the molecular mechanisms of tumour heterogeneity, dormancy, de novo or acquired resistance and how to target key nodes in these dynamic processes; (6) developing validated markers for chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity; (7) understanding the optimal duration, sequencing and rational combinations of treatment for improved personalised therapy; (8) validating multimodality imaging biomarkers for minimally invasive diagnosis and monitoring of responses in primary and metastatic disease; (9) developing interventions and support to improve the survivorship experience; (10) a continuing need for clinical material for translational research derived from normal breast, blood, primary, relapsed, metastatic and drug-resistant cancers with expert bioinformatics support to maximise its utility. The proposed infrastructural enablers include enhanced resources to support clinically relevant in vitro and in vivo tumour models; improved access to appropriate, fully annotated clinical samples; extended biomarker discovery, validation and standardisation; and facilitated cross-discipline working. CONCLUSIONS: With resources to conduct further high-quality targeted research focusing on the gaps identified, increased knowledge translating into improved clinical care should be achievable within five years