Data support an important role for TP53 in mammary carcinogenesis

(Breast Cancer-May 6, 2003)

"The TP53 gene (p53) is found altered in breast carcinomas in approximately 20% - 40% of all cases depending on tumor size and stage of the disease," scientists in Norway report.

"It seems to be an early event in breast tumorigenesis. Several polymorphisms in the TP53 gene have been detected and their possible roles in breast cancer risk and association to type of cancer developed are discussed," wrote A.L. Borresendale and colleagues, Norwegian Radium Hospital, University Hospital.

"The different mutation spectra seen in geographical and ethnic populations may be used to identify environmental exposure contributing to breast cancer development," the researchers wrote.

The researchers concluded: "The role of TP53 mutation as a prognostic marker is reviewed as well as its role as a predictor for therapy response. All data available on TP53 mutation analyses of human breast carcinomas, as well data from transgenic animal studies and experimental cell studies, support an important role for TP53 in mammary carcinogenesis."

Borresendale and colleagues published their study in Human Mutation (TP53 and breast cancer. Hum Mutat, 2003;21(3):292-300).

For more information, contact A.L. Borresendale, Norwegian Radium Hospital, University Hospital, Institute for Cancer Research, Department of Genetics, N-0310 Oslo, Norway.

The information in this article comes under the major subject area of Oncology. This article was prepared by Cancer Weekly editors from staff and other reports.

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