SiRNA inhibition of ER-alpha expression reduces KGF-induced proliferation of breast cancer cells.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) produces a rapid increase in the proliferation and motility of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer cells which is abolished by estrogen deprivation and/or anti-estrogen treatment. The present study examined the hypothesis that ER-alpha is involved in the KGF proliferation in MCF-7 cancer cells using small interfering RNA (siRNA) to selectively inhibit ER-alpha expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

At 48 hours following ER-alpha siRNA transfection, the MCF-7 cells were treated with KGF (50 ng/ml) or vehicle for 24 hours. Cell proliferation was measured using a MTT assay. ER-alpha protein levels were quantified by Western blotting.

RESULTS:

ER-alpha siRNA transfection significantly reduced ER-alpha expression and MCF-7 cell proliferation. KGF-mediated enhancement of cell proliferation and motile cell morphology were reduced or absent in the siRNA transfected MCF-7 cells.

CONCLUSION:

ER-alpha expression is associated with KGF-induced proliferation of breast cancer cells.

• Authors: Xiao-Ping Zang, J Thomas Pento
• Journal: Anticancer research (Anticancer Res) 2008 Sep-Oct Vol. 28 Issue 5A Pg. 2733-5 ISSN: 0250-7005 [Print] Greece
• PMID: 19035303 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Estrogen Receptor alpha
• RNA, Small Interfering
• Fibroblast Growth Factor 7

Topics

• Breast Neoplasms (genetics, metabolism, pathology)
• Cell Growth Processes (drug effects, genetics)
• Cell Line, Tumor
• Estrogen Receptor alpha (antagonists & inhibitors, biosynthesis, genetics)
• Fibroblast Growth Factor 7 (antagonists & inhibitors, pharmacology)
• Humans
• RNA, Small Interfering (genetics)
• Transfection