Breast tumours contain a number of different cell types which, when they interact with each other, can result in disease growth and progression. One cell type, stromal cells, comprise the majority of cells within a tumour.
These are known to secrete a wide range of factors which are involved in regulating cellular function by binding to receptors on epithelial tumour cells. This results in different cells interacting with each other, controlled at least in part through the secretion of these factors, including growth factors and chemokines. They have a number of functions including the stimulation of cell motility and are thought to play a pivotal role in tumour metastasis.
My current research focuses on analyzing the properties of stromal cells in terms of gene expression and protein secretion. Factors secreted by tumour stromal cells and their impact on the growth and migration of epithelial cells are being investigated. Little is known about the specific factors involved and their precise mechanisms of action. Increased knowledge about intercellular communication will support novel approaches to interrupt cell-cell interactions and potentially halt tumour progression.
Factors of interest in the primary tumour microenvironment are also investigated on a systemic (i.e. whole body) level in breast cancer patients and healthy controls. This will determine whether elements active within the primary tumour may serve as a useful marker of disease on a systemic level (e.g. developing tumour markers which can be measured in blood samples). Further understanding the biology of the primary tumour microenvironment will contribute to increased knowledge of the elements controlling disease progression
Marion Hartmann, NUI Galway
