Identifying Metastasis Susceptibility Genes for Estrogen Receptor-Negative Breast Cancer

Abstract

Abstract : The goal of this project is to identify metastasis susceptibility genes for estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer. Genetic analysis in mouse models has localized candidate genes to the distal end of mouse chromosome 6. Combined genomic and in vivo analysis has identified at least three candidate genes in this that are associated with metastatic progression in the mouse. Preliminary human association studies provide suggestive support for at least one of the candidate genes. Furthermore, evidence accumulated to date suggest that the effects on metastasis may be tumor-autonomous for at least some of the genes in question. To gain further information regarding additional candidate genes full genome sequencing has been performed on the MOLF/Ei strain of mice. In depth analysis of the polymorphic content of this strain may provide additional candidate genes for analysis as well as greater insight into the potential causative polymorphisms association with metastatic susceptibility.