High-throughput genomic technology in research and clinical management of breast cancer. Molecular signatures of progression from benign epithelium to metastatic breast cancer

Breast Cancer Res. 2006;8(4):213. doi: 10.1186/bcr1528.

Abstract

It is generally accepted that early detection of breast cancer has great impact on patient survival, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis. In a widely recognized model of breast cancer development, tumor cells progress through chronological and well defined stages. However, the molecular basis of disease progression in breast cancer remains poorly understood. High-throughput molecular profiling techniques are excellent tools for the study of complex molecular alterations. By accurately mapping changes in the genome and subsequent biological/molecular pathways, the chances of finding potential novel treatment targets as well as intervention strategies are enhanced, and ultimately lives can be saved. This review provides a brief summary of recent progress in identifying molecular markers for invasiveness in early breast lesions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast / physiopathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Lobular / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Lobular / pathology
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / genetics
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / pathology
  • Disease Progression
  • Epithelium / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Profiling
  • Genetic Techniques*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / genetics
  • Precancerous Conditions / genetics
  • Precancerous Conditions / pathology
  • Research