PMID: 9191527Jun 15, 1997Paper

Overexpression of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) in breast carcinoma

Cancer
B D LiArrigo de Benedetti

Abstract

Eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF-4E) is a 25-kilodalton phosphoprotein that binds specifically to mRNA as the initial step for mRNA translation. An elevated level of eIF4E has been associated with the up-regulation of various protooncogene products. Transfection of cell lines by viral vectors with eIF4E overexpression has resulted in malignant transformation. The objective in this study was twofold: to examine benign and malignant breast specimens for eIF4E expression, and to determine whether eIF4E overexpression may have prognostic potential. Western blot analysis was performed on benign and malignant breast specimens using anti-eIF4E rabbit antiserum. Quantification was accomplished by developing blots with nitroblue tetrazolium and 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate and densitometry. Confirmation of eIF4E overexpression at the cellular level was performed using immunohistologic staining in situ. The authors examined 112 breast specimens for eIF4E protein expression. Of the 52 benign breast specimens examined, none showed eIF4E overexpression. All 12 ductal carcinoma in situ specimens were found to overexpress eIF4E in the intermediate range (mean elevation: 2.5-fold). Of the 48 breast carcinoma specimens examined, all...Continue Reading

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