A comparison of normal breast cells (top) versus breast cells with low levels of mtDNA
A team led by Manti Guha and Narayan Avadhani at the
University of Pennsylvania have found the connection between low levels ofmitochondrial DNA and the metastasis of human breast cancer cells. Previously,
it was known that reduced amounts of mitochondrial DNA existed in patients with
aggressive forms of cancer, but the influence of the low levels was not known. The
work may allow for a greater understanding of the disease progression and help
clinicians provide treatment that is specific for the varying prognoses.
Mitochondria
have several functions in cells. They function in apoptosis (which can allow
for the death of cancer cells before metastasis) and cellular metabolism.
Mitochondria also code for proteins that deliver energy. Yet, about 80% of
individuals with breast cancer have reduced mitochondrial DNA.
In the
study, mtDNA was reduced in two ways: genetically lowering levels of mtDNA and
employing a chemical to reduced DNA. Both treatments were administered to
cancerous and non-cancerous breast cells. The cells that had reduced levels of
mtDNA took on characteristics of cancer cells. The cells had disorganized
structure, the cells metabolism was changed, and the cells were self-renewing.
Further, these cells had surface markers that are present on breast cancer stem
cells.
Uncovering
the connection between low levels of mtDNA and cancer is significant for
several reasons. mtDNA is now a
possibility for a target for treatment of aggressive forms of cancer. Further,
such a discovery can allow for more personal, specific cancer treatment.
Additionally, the research provides insight into the connection between
metastatic diseases and mtDNA levels. There is still much potential with such
work, as the team would like to study tumor samples and in vivo mouse models.
Another recent study has provided insight into the progression of breast cancer. Researchers
have discovered the connection between Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein
(FMRP) and the advancement of the disease. In mice, decreased metastasis
resulted from decrease FMRP levels while secondary metastasis and spread of the
cancer to the lungs resulted from high levels. Thus, it is believed that FMRP controls
mRNAs affecting cancer progression. The discovery can be used to predict the
spread of cancer and to reveal aggressive breast cancer.
I found
both articles were very enlightening and promising. As stated in the article on
FMRP, the most common cancer in women is breast cancer. Even when the
individual thinks they beat the disease, it can return and spread. For the
individuals suffering from this terrible disease, there is little hope and much
fear. These studies provide the hope that is lacking, in uncovering the
mechanisms of the elusive disease and providing hope for more personalized
care. I found the possibility of more personalized care as one of the most
significant results of this study. Most individuals, myself included, want to
be treated as an individual when seeking medical treatment and want to feel
that treatment is most effective for their situation. This study may make that
possible for those suffering from one of the most dangerous threats to human
life. I found this that article was very intriguing, and I am interesting in
seeing the results of the future research that the University of Pennsylvania
team will conduct.
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