Differential Impact of EGFR-Targeted Therapies on Hypoxia Responses: Implications for Treatment Sensitivity in Triple-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer
2011

Effects of EGFR Inhibitors on Hypoxia Responses in Breast Cancer

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): El Guerrab Abderrahim, Zegrour Rabah, Nemlin Carine-Christiane, Vigier Flavie, Cayre Anne, Penault-Llorca Frederique, Rossignol Fabrice, Bignon Yves-Jean

Primary Institution: Centre Jean Perrin, Clermont-Ferrand, France

Hypothesis

How do EGFR inhibitors affect hypoxia responses in triple-negative metastatic breast cancer?

Conclusion

Gefitinib reduces HIF-1 alpha levels and enhances sensitivity to treatment in triple-negative breast cancer.

Supporting Evidence

  • Gefitinib sharply reduced HIF-1 alpha levels in treated cells.
  • Cetuximab and lapatinib did not affect HIF-1 alpha expression.
  • Cell migration was significantly inhibited by gefitinib under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions.
  • Gefitinib induced cell mortality in a dose-dependent manner.

Takeaway

This study shows that a drug called gefitinib can help treat a type of breast cancer by making it more sensitive to treatment by lowering a protein that helps cancer cells survive in low oxygen.

Methodology

The study used genetically modified breast cancer cells to assess the effects of EGFR inhibitors on HIF activity and stability under hypoxic conditions.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on in vitro models, which may not fully replicate in vivo conditions.

Participant Demographics

The study used MDA-MB-231 cells, a human triple-negative breast cancer cell line.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0025080

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