Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) is commonly believed to function as an inhibitor of the malignant phenotype by blocking the degradative activity of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs). However, recent clinical observations have demonstrated that TIMP-1 is overexpressed in a majority of tumors and is often associated with a poor prognosis, suggesting that TIMPs may possess a pro-malignant function. TIMP-1 is able to induce Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in MCF10A breast epithelial cells, an initial step leading to metastasis. The goals of these studies are to determine the mechanism by which TIMP-1 is able to induce EMT and provide important information about the alternative pro-malignant activity of TIMP-1. An inducible vector system will be used to overexpress TIMP-1 to assess its potential role in regulating TGF-Beta signaling, an important mediator of EMT. In addition, studies will be performed to assess the potential role and necessity of PAI-1 in TIMP-1 mediated EMT through siRNA techniques. Finally, these in vitro observations will be related to clinical data to assess potential correlations between TIMP-1, E-cadherin, Beta-catenin, PAI-1 and prognosis and mortality of breast carcinoma patients.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
1F32CA112714-01A1
Application #
6998646
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F09 (20))
Program Officer
Lohrey, Nancy
Project Start
2005-09-01
Project End
2008-08-31
Budget Start
2005-09-01
Budget End
2006-08-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2005
Total Cost
$48,296
Indirect Cost
Name
Louisiana State University Hsc Shreveport
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
095439774
City
Shreveport
State
LA
Country
United States
Zip Code
71103