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Fekete Z, Tertan BO, Raduly L, Eniu DT, Buiga R, Galatar M, Berindan-Neagoe I. Prevalence of MMTV-like sequences in breast cancer samples in Romanian patients-there is a geographic difference compared to the Western world. Infect Agent Cancer 2023; 18:39. [PMID: 37340312 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-023-00486-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer, although the most frequently diagnosed malignant tumor in humans, has a less clear etiology compared to other frequent cancer types. Mouse-mammary tumor virus (MMTV) is involved in breast cancer in mice and dogs and might play a role in the etiology of some breast cancers in humans, since an MMTV-like sequence was identified in 20-40% of breast cancer samples in Western Europe, USA, Australia and some other parts of the world. The purpose of our study was to identify MMTV-like DNA sequences in breast tissue samples from breast cancer patients who underwent curative surgery in our regional academic center in Romania, EU. METHODS We selected 75 patients with non-metastatic breast cancer treated surgically with curative intent, who did not undergo any neoadjuvant treatment. Out of these patients, 50 underwent radical lumpectomy and 25 modified radical mastectomy. Based on previous reports in the literature we searched using PCR the MMTV-like DNA env sequence in the breast cancer tissue and normal breast tissue obtained from the same patients. RESULTS None of the examined samples was positive for MMTV-like target sequences on PCR. CONCLUSIONS We could not prove that MMTV plays a role in the etiology of breast cancer in our patient group. This finding is similar to those from publications of other geographically related research groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Fekete
- Oncology-Radiotherapy, Department of Oncology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Institute of Oncology "Prof Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Radiotherapy III, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | | | - Lajos Raduly
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dan Tudor Eniu
- Oncological Surgery and Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Oncology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Surgery Department, Institute of Oncology "Prof Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rares Buiga
- Pathology Department, Institute of Oncology "Prof Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaela Galatar
- Pathology Department, Institute of Oncology "Prof Dr. Ion Chiricuță", Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Berindan-Neagoe
- Research Center for Functional Genomics, Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Bevilacqua G. The Viral Origin of Human Breast Cancer: From the Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) to the Human Betaretrovirus (HBRV). Viruses 2022; 14:v14081704. [PMID: 36016325 PMCID: PMC9412291 DOI: 10.3390/v14081704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A Human Betaretrovirus (HBRV) has been identified in humans, dating as far back as about 4500 years ago, with a high probability of it being acquired by our species around 10,000 years ago, following a species jump from mice to humans. HBRV is the human homolog of the MMTV (mouse mammary tumor virus), which is the etiological agent of murine mammary tumors. The hypothesis of a HMTV (human mammary tumor virus) was proposed about 50 years ago, and has acquired a solid scientific basis during the last 30 years, with the demonstration of a robust link with breast cancer and with PBC, primary biliary cholangitis. This article summarizes most of what is known about MMTV/HMTV/HBRV since the discovery of MMTV at the beginning of last century, to make evident both the quantity and the quality of the research supporting the existence of HBRV and its pathogenic role. Here, it is sufficient to mention that scientific evidence includes that viral sequences have been identified in breast-cancer samples in a worldwide distribution, that the complete proviral genome has been cloned from breast cancer and patients with PBC, and that saliva contains HBRV, as a possible route of inter-human infection. Controversies that have arisen concerning results obtained from human tissues, many of them outdated by new scientific evidence, are critically discussed and confuted.
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Parisi F, Freer G, Mazzanti CM, Pistello M, Poli A. Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) and MMTV-like Viruses: An In-depth Look at a Controversial Issue. Viruses 2022; 14:v14050977. [PMID: 35632719 PMCID: PMC9147501 DOI: 10.3390/v14050977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its discovery as a milk factor, mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) has been shown to cause mammary carcinoma and lymphoma in mice. MMTV infection depends upon a viral superantigen (sag)-induced immune response and exploits the immune system to establish infection in mammary epithelial cells when they actively divide. Simultaneously, it avoids immune responses, causing tumors through insertional mutagenesis and clonal expansion. Early studies identified antigens and sequences belonging to a virus homologous to MMTV in human samples. Several pieces of evidence fulfill a criterion for a possible causal role for the MMTV-like virus in human breast cancer (BC), though the controversy about whether this virus was linked to BC has raged for over 40 years in the literature. In this review, the most important issues related to MMTV, from its discovery to the present days, are retraced to fully explore such a controversial issue. Furthermore, the hypothesis of an MMTV-like virus raised the question of a potential zoonotic mouse–man transmission. Several studies investigate the role of an MMTV-like virus in companion animals, suggesting their possible role as mediators. Finally, the possibility of an MMTV-like virus as a cause of human BC opens a new era for prevention and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Parisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale Delle Piagge, 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Giulia Freer
- Dipartimento di Ricerca Traslazionale e delle Nuove Tecnologie in Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Chiara Maria Mazzanti
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini, 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Italy;
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Dipartimento di Ricerca Traslazionale e delle Nuove Tecnologie in Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Alessandro Poli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale Delle Piagge, 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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4
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Goubran M, Wang W, Indik S, Faschinger A, Wasilenko ST, Bintner J, Carpenter EJ, Zhang G, Nuin P, Macintyre G, Wong GKS, Mason AL. Isolation of a Human Betaretrovirus from Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis. Viruses 2022; 14:v14050886. [PMID: 35632628 PMCID: PMC9146342 DOI: 10.3390/v14050886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A human betaretrovirus (HBRV) has been linked with the autoimmune liver disease, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and various cancers, including breast cancer and lymphoma. HBRV is closely related to the mouse mammary tumor virus, and represents the only exogenous betaretrovirus characterized in humans to date. Evidence of infection in patients with PBC has been demonstrated through the identification of proviral integration sites in lymphoid tissue, the major reservoir of infection, as well as biliary epithelium, which is the site of the disease process. Accordingly, we tested the hypothesis that patients with PBC harbor a transmissible betaretrovirus by co-cultivation of PBC patients’ lymph node homogenates with the HS578T breast cancer line. Because of the low level of HBRV replication, betaretrovirus producing cells were subcloned to optimize viral isolation and production. Evidence of infection was provided by electron microscopy, RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, cloning of the HBRV proviral genome and demonstration of more than 3400 integration sites. Further evidence of viral transmissibility was demonstrated by infection of biliary epithelial cells. While HBRV did not show a preference for integration proximal to specific genomic features, analyses of common insertion sites revealed evidence of integration proximal to cancer associated genes. These studies demonstrate the isolation of HBRV with features similar to mouse mammary tumor virus and confirm that patients with PBC display evidence of a transmissible viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Goubran
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
| | - Stanislav Indik
- Department of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria; (S.I.); (A.F.)
| | - Alexander Faschinger
- Department of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria; (S.I.); (A.F.)
| | - Shawn T. Wasilenko
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
| | - Jasper Bintner
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
| | - Eric J. Carpenter
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada;
| | - Guangzhi Zhang
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
| | - Paulo Nuin
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada;
| | - Georgina Macintyre
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
| | - Gane K.-S. Wong
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada;
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Andrew L. Mason
- Center of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; (M.G.); (W.W.); (S.T.W.); (J.B.); (G.Z.); (G.M.); (G.K.-S.W.)
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(780)-492-8176
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Mouse Mammary Tumour Virus (MMTV) in Human Breast Cancer—The Value of Bradford Hill Criteria. Viruses 2022; 14:v14040721. [PMID: 35458452 PMCID: PMC9028876 DOI: 10.3390/v14040721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
For many decades, the betaretrovirus, mouse mammary tumour virus (MMTV), has been a causal suspect for human breast cancer. In recent years, substantial new evidence has been developed. Based on this evidence, we hypothesise that MMTV has a causal role. We have used an extended version of the classic A. Bradford Hill causal criteria to assess the evidence. 1. Identification of MMTV in human breast cancers: The MMTV 9.9 kb genome in breast cancer cells has been identified. The MMTV genome in human breast cancer is up to 98% identical to MMTV in mice. 2. Epidemiology: The prevalence of MMTV positive human breast cancer is about 35 to 40% of breast cancers in Western countries and 15 to 20% in China and Japan. 3. Strength of the association between MMTV and human breast cancer: Consistency—MMTV env gene sequences are consistently five-fold higher in human breast cancer as compared to benign and normal breast controls. 4. Temporality (timing) of the association: MMTV has been identified in benign and normal breast tissues up to 10 years before the development of MMTV positive breast cancer in the same patient. 5. Exposure: Exposure of humans to MMTV leads to development of MMTV positive human breast cancer. 6. Experimental evidence: MMTVs can infect human breast cells in culture; MMTV proteins are capable of malignantly transforming normal human breast epithelial cells; MMTV is a likely cause of biliary cirrhosis, which suggests a link between MMTV and the disease in humans. 7. Coherence—analogy: The life cycle and biology of MMTV in humans is almost the same as in experimental and feral mice. 8. MMTV Transmission: MMTV has been identified in human sputum and human milk. Cereals contaminated with mouse fecal material may transmit MMTV. These are potential means of transmission. 9. Biological plausibility: Retroviruses are the established cause of human cancers. Human T cell leukaemia virus type I (HTLV-1) causes adult T cell leukaemia, and human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV) is associated with lymphoma and Kaposi sarcoma. 10. Oncogenic mechanisms: MMTV oncogenesis in humans probably differs from mice and may involve the enzyme APOBEC3B. Conclusion: In our view, the evidence is compelling that MMTV has a probable causal role in a subset of approximately 40% of human breast cancers.
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Pradhan RK, Ramakrishna W. Transposons: Unexpected players in cancer. Gene 2022; 808:145975. [PMID: 34592349 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Transposons are repetitive DNA sequences encompassing about half of the human genome. They play a vital role in genome stability maintenance and contribute to genomic diversity and evolution. Their activity is regulated by various mechanisms considering the deleterious effects of these mobile elements. Various genetic risk factors and environmental stress conditions affect the regulatory pathways causing alteration of transposon expression. Our knowledge of the biological role of transposons is limited especially in various types of cancers. Retrotransposons of different types (LTR-retrotransposons, LINEs and SINEs) regulate a plethora of genes that have a role in cell reprogramming, tumor suppression, cell cycle, apoptosis, cell adhesion and migration, and DNA repair. The regulatory mechanisms of transposons, their deregulation and different mechanisms underlying transposon-mediated carcinogenesis in humans focusing on the three most prevalent types, lung, breast and colorectal cancers, were reviewed. The modes of regulation employed include alternative splicing, deletion, insertion, duplication in genes and promoters resulting in upregulation, downregulation or silencing of genes.
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Mustafa F, Ahmad W, Khader T, Panicker N, Akhlaq S, Baby J, Gull B. MMTV-like Env sequences from human breast cancer patients cannot yet be considered as a separate species. HAMDAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/hmj.hmj_35_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Parisi F, Muscatello LV, Civita P, Lessi F, Menicagli M, Millanta F, Brunetti B, Benazzi C, Sarli G, Freer G, Pistello M, Mazzanti CM, Poli A. Pathological Features and Molecular Phenotype of MMTV Like-Positive Feline Mammary Carcinomas. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102821. [PMID: 34679842 PMCID: PMC8532932 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Mouse mammary tumour virus-like (MMTV-like) is suspected to be involved in human breast cancer and feline mammary carcinomas (FMCs). We previously reported the identification of MMTV-like sequences and viral protein in six of 78 FMCs collected in Tuscany, Italy. To corroborate this finding, FMCs samples collected from a different geographic area were investigated. MMTV-like sequences and p14 protein were identified in three of 24 FMCs collected at the University of Bologna, one tubular carcinoma, one tubulopapillary carcinoma and one ductal carcinoma. All the examined FMCs from Pisa and Bologna were submitted to immunohistochemistry for molecular phenotype characterization. Of the nine positive FMCs, six were basal-like and three luminal-like. This study highlights the presence of MMTV-like sequences and protein in FMCs of different geographic areas. The characterization of molecular phenotype could contribute to understand the possible role of MMTV-like virus in FMC biological behaviour. Abstract In the last few years MMTV-like nucleotide sequences were detected in some feline and canine mammary tumours. Due to the confirmed role of cats in the epidemiology of the MMTV-like virus, the aim of this study was to investigate the main pathological features of positive feline mammary carcinomas (FMCs). Twenty-four FMCs were collected at the University of Bologna, submitted to laser microdissection and analysed by nested fluorescence-PCR using primer sets specific for MMTV env sequence. For immunohistochemistry, an antibody against MMTV protein 14 (p14) was used. MMTV-like sequences were detected in three out of 24 FMCs (12.5%), one tubular carcinoma, one tubulopapillary carcinoma and one ductal carcinoma. All PCR-positive tumours were also positive for p14. Multiple nucleotide alignment has shown similarity to MMTV ranging from 98% to 100%. All the 102 examined FMCs were submitted to immunohistochemistry for molecular phenotyping. Of the nine MMTV-like positive FMCs, six were basal-like and three luminal-like. Our results demonstrate MMTV-like sequences and protein in FMCs of different geographic areas. Molecular phenotyping could contribute to understand the possible role of MMTV-like virus in FMC tumor biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Parisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Luisa Vera Muscatello
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di sopra n. 43, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy; (L.V.M.); (B.B.); (C.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Prospero Civita
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4EP, UK;
| | - Francesca Lessi
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza Onlus, Via Ferruccio Giovannini n. 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Italy; (F.L.); (M.M.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Michele Menicagli
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza Onlus, Via Ferruccio Giovannini n. 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Italy; (F.L.); (M.M.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Francesca Millanta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.M.)
| | - Barbara Brunetti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di sopra n. 43, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy; (L.V.M.); (B.B.); (C.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Cinzia Benazzi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di sopra n. 43, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy; (L.V.M.); (B.B.); (C.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Sarli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di sopra n. 43, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia, Italy; (L.V.M.); (B.B.); (C.B.); (G.S.)
| | - Giulia Freer
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Savi n. 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Savi n. 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (G.F.); (M.P.)
| | - Chiara Maria Mazzanti
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza Onlus, Via Ferruccio Giovannini n. 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Italy; (F.L.); (M.M.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Alessandro Poli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge n. 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.P.); (F.M.)
- Correspondence:
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9
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Abstract
Abstract We have considered viruses and their contribution to breast cancer. Mouse mammary tumour virus The prevalence of mouse mammary tumour virus (MMTV) is 15-fold higher in human breast cancer than in normal and benign human breast tissue controls. Saliva is the most plausible means of transmission. MMTV has been identified in dogs, cats, monkeys, mice and rats. The causal mechanisms include insertional oncogenesis and mutations in the protective enzyme ABOBEC3B. Human papilloma virus The prevalence of high risk human papilloma viruses (HPV) is frequently six fold higher in breast cancer than in normal and benign breast tissue controls. Women who develop HPV associated cervical cancer are at higher than normal risk of developing HPV associated breast cancer. Koilocytes have been identified in breast cancers which is an indication of HPV oncogenicity. The causal mechanisms of HPVs in breast cancer appear to differ from cervical cancer. Sexual activity is the most common form of HPV transmission. HPVs are probably transmitted from the cervix to the breast by circulating extra cellular vesicles. Epstein Barr virus The prevalence of Epstein Barr virus (EBV) is five fold higher in breast cancer than in normal and benign breast tissue controls. EBV is mostly transmitted from person to person via saliva. EBV infection predisposes breast epithelial cells to malignant transformation through activation of HER2/HER3 signalling cascades. EBV EBNA genes contribute to tumour growth and metastasis and have the ability to affect the mesenchymal transition of cells. Bovine leukemia virus Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) infects beef and dairy cattle and leads to various cancers. The prevalence of BLV is double in human breast cancers compared to controls. Breast cancer is more prevalent in red meat eating and cow’s milk consuming populations. BLV may be transmitted to humans from cattle by the consumption of red meat and cow’s milk. Conclusion The evidence that MMTV, high risk HPVs and EBVs have causal roles in human breast cancer is compelling. The evidence with respect to BLV is more limited but it is likely to also have a causal role in human breast cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13027-021-00366-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Wendy K Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Loutfy SA, Abdallah ZF, Shaalan M, Moneer M, Karam A, Moneer MM, Sayed IM, Abd El-Hafeez AA, Ghosh P, Zekri ARN. Prevalence of MMTV-Like env Sequences and Its Association with BRCA1/2 Genes Mutations Among Egyptian Breast Cancer Patients. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:2835-2848. [PMID: 33814932 PMCID: PMC8009344 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s294584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) is thought to have a role in human breast cancer (BC) pathogenesis. BRCA1 and 2 genes mutations are well-established risk factors for BC. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence of MMTV in familial and non-familial Egyptian breast cancer patients. We also aimed to establish a correlation between BRCAs genes mutations and MMTV infection in those patients. Patients and Methods The study was included 80 BC patients and 10 healthy women were included as a control group. We used PCR to amplify a 250-bp MMTV-like env sequence. We also used PCR followed by direct sequencing to identify the genetic variation of exons 2, 13, 19 of BRCA1 gene and exon 9 and region f of exon 11 of BRCA2 gene. High resolution melting (HRM) analysis was used to screen the selected exons of BRCA1/2 genes in order to detect different variants. Results MMTV DNA-like env sequences were detected in 70%, 76% of familial and non-familial BC patients, respectively, and it was not detected in any of the control subjects. The presence of viral sequences was associated with larger tumor size in the sporadic patients. Seventy BC patients showed variations in BRCA1/2 genes according to HRM analysis and sequencing analysis showed two different sequences of polymorphism among 22 familial and non-familial BC patients. Conclusion MMTV DNA was present among BC patients and it was associated with increased tumor growth. This indicates a potential role for MMTV in BC patients with and without deleterious mutation in BRCA1/2 genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samah A Loutfy
- Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zeinab F Abdallah
- Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Shaalan
- Surgical Oncology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Moneer
- Surgical Oncology Department, Materia Teaching Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Adel Karam
- Surgical Oncology Department, Materia Teaching Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Manar M Moneer
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M Sayed
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amer Ali Abd El-Hafeez
- Pharmacology and Experimental Oncology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Pradipta Ghosh
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.,Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Abdel-Rahman N Zekri
- Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Lessi F, Grandi N, Mazzanti CM, Civita P, Scatena C, Aretini P, Bandiera P, Fornaciari A, Giuffra V, Fornaciari G, Naccarato AG, Tramontano E, Bevilacqua G. A human MMTV-like betaretrovirus linked to breast cancer has been present in humans at least since the copper age. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:15978-15994. [PMID: 32735554 PMCID: PMC7485742 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The betaretrovirus Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) is the well characterized etiological agent of mammary tumors in mice. In contrast, the etiology of sporadic human breast cancer (BC) is unknown, but accumulating data indicate a possible viral origin also for these malignancies. The presence of MMTVenv-like sequences (MMTVels) in the human salivary glands and saliva supports the latter as possible route of inter-human dissemination. In the absence of the demonstration of a mouse-man transmission of MMTV, we considered the possibility that a cross-species transmission could have occurred in ancient times. Therefore, we investigated MMTVels in the ancient dental calculus, which originates from saliva and is an excellent material for paleovirology. The calculus was collected from 36 ancient human skulls, excluding any possible mouse contamination. MMTV-like sequences were identified in the calculus of 6 individuals dated from the Copper Age to the 17th century. The MMTV-like sequences were compared with known human endogenous betaretroviruses and with animal exogenous betaretroviruses, confirming their exogenous origin and relation to MMTV. These data reveal that a human exogenous betaretrovirus similar to MMTV has existed at least since 4,500 years ago and indirectly support the hypothesis that it could play a role in human breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole Grandi
- Division of Molecular Virology, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Prospero Civita
- Division of Pathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cristian Scatena
- Division of Pathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Bandiera
- Center for Anthropological, Paleopathological and Historical Studies of The Sardinian and Mediterranean Populations, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonio Fornaciari
- Division of Paleopathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Giuffra
- Division of Paleopathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gino Fornaciari
- Division of Paleopathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Giuseppe Naccarato
- Division of Pathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Division of Molecular Virology, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Generoso Bevilacqua
- Division of Pathology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, "San Rossore" Hospital, Pisa, Italy
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12
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Lawson JS, Glenn WK. Evidence for a causal role by mouse mammary tumour-like virus in human breast cancer. NPJ Breast Cancer 2019; 5:40. [PMID: 31728407 PMCID: PMC6838066 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-019-0136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We have reviewed the evidence relevant to mouse mammary tumour viruses (MMTV) and human breast cancer. The prevalence of MMTV- like gene sequences is 15-fold higher in human breast cancer than in normal human breast tissue controls and is present in up to 40% of human breast cancers. MMTV-like gene sequences can be identified in benign breast tissues 1–11 years before the development of positive MMTV-like breast cancer in the same women. The prevalence of MMTV antibodies in sera from women with breast cancer is 5-fold higher than in normal women. MMTV can infect human breast epithelial cells and integrate at random into the human genome located in those cells. MMTV-like gene sequences are present in human milk from normal lactating women and with increased prevalence in milk from women at risk of breast cancer. MMTV-like virus associated human breast cancer has strikingly similar features to MMTV-associated mouse mammary tumours. These features include almost identical nucleotide sequences and structure of the MMTV genome, histology, superantigen expression, MMTV infection of B and T lymphocytes and hormone dependence. MMTV-like gene sequences have also been identified in dogs, cats, monkeys, mice and rats. Saliva has been identified as the most plausible means of transmission from human to human and possibly from dogs to humans. The evidence meets the classic causal criteria. A causal role for MMTV-like viruses in human breast cancer is highly likely.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Wendy K Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
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Amarante MK, de Sousa Pereira N, Vitiello GAF, Watanabe MAE. Involvement of a mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) homologue in human breast cancer: Evidence for, against and possible causes of controversies. Microb Pathog 2019; 130:283-294. [PMID: 30905715 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2019.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a complex and heterogeneous disease whose evolution depends on the tumor-host interaction. This type of cancer occurs when the mammary cells begin to grow wildly and become able to invade nearby tissues and/or promote metastases. Mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) is the accepted etiological agent of mammary tumors in mice. The identification of MMTV-like sequences and antigens in human mammary carcinoma has supported the theory that a virus homologous to MMTV (namely, HMTV) may be involved in human BC, but the role of retroviral elements in this disease remains elusive, as results from different research groups were contradictory. In the present review we present works for and against the involvement of HMTV in BC and discuss possible causes of divergences among studies. In the final section we fit current data regarding this issue to stablished causality criteria. We conclude that there is convincing data supporting the association of HMTV with BC, however there is still a need for epidemiological and basic research studies focusing on carcinogenic mechanisms for this virus in humans to fully understand its role in BC. This knowledge may open the way for the development of new preventive and therapeutic approaches in human BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marla Karine Amarante
- Laboratory of DNA Polymorphisms and Immunology, Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Nathalia de Sousa Pereira
- Laboratory of DNA Polymorphisms and Immunology, Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Glauco Akelinghton Freire Vitiello
- Laboratory of DNA Polymorphisms and Immunology, Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Maria Angelica Ehara Watanabe
- Laboratory of DNA Polymorphisms and Immunology, Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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14
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Lawson JS, Mazzanti C, Civita P, Menicagli M, Ngan CC, Whitaker NJ, Hochman J, Braitbard O, Yosufi B, Glenn WK. Association of Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus With Human Breast Cancer: Histology, Immunohistochemistry and Polymerase Chain Reaction Analyses. Front Oncol 2018; 8:141. [PMID: 29868468 PMCID: PMC5950654 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study is to determine whether mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-associated human breast cancer has the same or similar histology to MMTV-associated mouse mammary tumors. Such associations may indicate a role for MMTV in human breast cancer. Methods Immunohistochemical techniques (using antibodies directed against the signal peptide p14 of the envelope precursor protein of MMTV) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses were used to identify MMTV proteins and MMTV-like envelope gene sequences in a series of breast cancers from Australian women. The histological characteristics of these human breast cancer specimens were compared with MMTV positive mouse mammary tumors. The same methods were used to study benign breast tissues which 1–11 years later developed into breast cancer. Results MMTV p14 proteins were identified in 27 (54%) of 50 human breast cancers. MMTV env gene sequences were identified by PCR in 12 (27%) of 45 human breast cancers. There was a significant correlation between the presence of MMTV (identified by p14 immunohistochemistry) in human breast cancers and histological characteristics similar to MMTV positive mouse mammary tumors (p = 0.001). There was a non-significant correlation between the presence of MMTV env gene sequences (identified by PCR) in human breast cancers and histological characteristics similar to MMTV positive mouse mammary tumors (p = 0.290). MMTV p14 proteins were identified in 7 (54%) of 13 benign breast specimens that later developed into human breast cancers. MMTV by PCR was identified in two benign specimens one of whom later developed MMTV positive breast cancer. Discussion These observations offer evidence that MMTV may be associated with characteristic human breast cancer histology. p14-based immunohistochemistry appears to be a more reliable technique than PCR for the identification of MMTV in human breast cancer. Identification of MMTV-associated p14 proteins in benign breast tissues confirms prior PCR-based studies that MMTV infection occurs before the development of MMTV positive breast cancer. Conclusion Many MMTV positive human breast cancers have similar histology to MMTV positive mouse mammary tumors. MMTV infection identified in benign breast tissues precedes development of MMTV positive human breast cancer. When considered in the context of prior studies, these observations indicate a likely role for MMTV in human breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jacob Hochman
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ori Braitbard
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Benafsha Yosufi
- Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Wendy K Glenn
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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15
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Gannon OM, Antonsson A, Bennett IC, Saunders NA. Viral infections and breast cancer - A current perspective. Cancer Lett 2018; 420:182-189. [PMID: 29410005 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.01.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Sporadic human breast cancer is the most common cancer to afflict women. Since the discovery, decades ago, of the oncogenic mouse mammary tumour virus, there has been significant interest in the potential aetiologic role of infectious agents in sporadic human breast cancer. To address this, many studies have examined the presence of viruses (e.g. papillomaviruses, herpes viruses and retroviruses), endogenous retroviruses and more recently, microbes, as a means of implicating them in the aetiology of human breast cancer. Such studies have generated conflicting experimental and clinical reports of the role of infection in breast cancer. This review evaluates the current evidence for a productive oncogenic viral infection in human breast cancer, with a focus on the integration of sensitive and specific next generation sequencing technologies with pathogen discovery. Collectively, the majority of the recent literature using the more powerful next generation sequencing technologies fail to support an oncogenic viral infection being involved in disease causality in breast cancer. In balance, the weight of the current experimental evidence supports the conclusion that viral infection is unlikely to play a significant role in the aetiology of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- O M Gannon
- University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - A Antonsson
- Department of Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Queensland 4006, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston Road, Herston, Queensland 4006, Australia
| | - I C Bennett
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston Road, Herston, Queensland 4006, Australia; Private Practice, The Wesley and St Andrews Hospital, Auchenflower 4066, Australia
| | - N A Saunders
- University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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16
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Al Dossary R, Alkharsah KR, Kussaibi H. Prevalence of Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV)-like sequences in human breast cancer tissues and adjacent normal breast tissues in Saudi Arabia. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:170. [PMID: 29426297 PMCID: PMC5810194 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4074-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is considered the most common cancer in women worldwide and is the leading cause of cancer mortality. Sequences similar to Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) were detected in human breast cancer in several studies from different geographical areas. However, the role played by this virus in breast cancer tumorigenesis is not completely understood. These MMTV-like sequences were found to be associated with breast cancer of more malignant types. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of MMTV-like envelope gene (env) positivity in breast cancer and non-cancerous breast tissue from Saudi Arabia. METHODS Detection of MMTV-like env proviral sequences was done using newly designed primers for conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). One hundred nighty four samples were collected from 103 females with breast cancer in addition to 51 control breast tissue obtained from individuals without cancer. We additionally investigated the association of proviral positivity with age of the patients, grade of breast cancer and presence of lymph node metastasis. The results were confirmed by sequencing. RESULTS The prevalence of MMTV-like env proviral positivity was 8.7% (9/103). MMTV env proviral sequences were detected in 5.9% (6/101) of breast cancer tissues and 9.7% (9/93) of non-cancerous adjacent tissues obtained from the same patients. None of the 51 control sample showed positive result for the MMTV env gene. No significant association was found between detection of the virus and the age of the patient, grade of the cancer or presence of metastasis. CONCLUSION We document the presence of low frequency of MMTV env provirus sequence among breast cancer patients from Saudi Arabia. Further studies are needed to explore the role of the MMTV in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Al Dossary
- Department of Microbiology, Collage of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), 1982, Dammam, 31441, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | - Khaled R Alkharsah
- Department of Epidemic Diseases Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultation, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haitham Kussaibi
- Department of Pathology, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
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17
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Lawson JS, Salmons B, Glenn WK. Oncogenic Viruses and Breast Cancer: Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV), Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Front Oncol 2018; 8:1. [PMID: 29404275 PMCID: PMC5786831 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although the risk factors for breast cancer are well established, namely female gender, early menarche and late menopause plus the protective influence of early pregnancy, the underlying causes of breast cancer remain unknown. The development of substantial recent evidence indicates that a handful of viruses may have a role in breast cancer. These viruses are mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV), bovine leukemia virus (BLV), human papilloma viruses (HPVs), and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV-also known as human herpes virus type 4). Each of these viruses has documented oncogenic potential. The aim of this review is to inform the scientific and general community about this recent evidence. The evidence MMTV and human breast cancer—the evidence is detailed and comprehensive but cannot be regarded as conclusive. BLV and human breast cancer—the evidence is limited. However, in view of the emerging information about BLV in human breast cancer, it is prudent to encourage the elimination of BLV in cattle, particularly in the dairy industry. HPVs and breast cancer—the evidence is substantial but not conclusive. The availability of effective preventive vaccines is a major advantage and their use should be encouraged. EBV and breast cancer—the evidence is also substantial but not conclusive. Currently, there are no practical means of either prevention or treatment. Although there is evidence of genetic predisposition, and cancer in general is a culmination of events, there is no evidence that inherited genetic traits are causal. Conclusion The influence of oncogenic viruses is currently the major plausible hypothesis for a direct cause of human breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Wendy K Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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18
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Shariatpanahi S, Farahani N, Salehi AR, Salehi R. High prevalence of mouse mammary tumor virus-like gene sequences in breast cancer samples of Iranian women. NUCLEOSIDES NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2017; 36:621-630. [PMID: 29185860 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2017.1360498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) is considered to be responsible for breast tumor development in mice. In several instances sequences homologous to the genome of this virus have been reported in human breast cancer samples. Here we aimed to evaluate MMTV involvement in human breast cancer development. DNA was extracted from 118 formalin fixed and paraffin embedded malignant (n = 59) and benign (n = 59) breast lesions. Using two sets of outer and inner MMTV-like envelope specific primers, in a nested PCR setup, MMTV genome was detected in 19 samples out of 59 (%32.2) cases of breast carcinomas, while in non-malignant breast tissue samples, only 3 samples out of 59 (%5) were positive. The difference was statistically highly significant (p < 0.001). Alignment of PCR amplified sequences with BR6, GR and C3H mouse mammary tumor virus strains emerged to be around 99% identical which is indicative of tumor tissue infection by an exogenous mouse MMTV genome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Najma Farahani
- b Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine , University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Salehi
- b Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine , University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Rasoul Salehi
- b Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine , University of Medical Sciences , Isfahan , Iran
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19
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Js L, Cc N, Wk G, Dd T. Mouse mammary tumour virus (MMTV) and human breast cancer with neuroendocrine differentiation. Infect Agent Cancer 2017; 12:24. [PMID: 28523075 PMCID: PMC5434566 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-017-0135-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mouse mammary tumour viruses (MMTVs) may have a role in a subset of human breast cancers. MMTV positive human breast cancers have similar histological characteristics to neuroendocrine breast cancers and to MMTV positive mouse mammary tumours. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of neuroendocrine biomarkers – synaptophysin and chromogranin, to determine if these histological characteristics and biomarker expression were due to the influences of MMTV. Methods Immunohistochemistry analyses to identify synaptophysin and chromogranin were conducted on a series of human breast cancers in which (i) MMTV had been previously identified and had similar histological characteristics to MMTV positive mouse mammary tumours and (ii) MMTV positive mouse mammary tumours. Results The expression of synaptophysin and chromogranin in MMTV positive mouse mammary tumors were all positive (7 of 7 specimens – 100% positive). The expression of synaptophysin and chromogranin in MMTV positive human breast cancers was much less prevalent (3 of 22 – 14%). There was no expression of synaptophysin and chromogranin in the normal breast tissue control specimens. Discussion It is not possible to draw any firm conclusions from these observations. However, despite the small numbers of MMTV positive mouse mammary tumours in this study, the universal expression in these specimens of synaptophysin and chromogranin proteins is striking. This pattern of synaptophysin and chromogranin expression is very different from their expression in MMTV positive human breast cancers. The reason for these differences is not known. Conclusions The high prevalence of positive expression of synaptophysin and chromogranin in MMTV positive mouse mammary tumours and low expression of synaptophysin and chromogranin in MMTV positive human breast cancers indicates that MMTV is not usually associated with neuroendocrine human breast cancers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13027-017-0135-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawson Js
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ngan Cc
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Glenn Wk
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tran Dd
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology, Sydney, Australia
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20
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Nartey T, Mazzanti CM, Melana S, Glenn WK, Bevilacqua G, Holland JF, Whitaker NJ, Lawson JS, Pogo BGT. Mouse mammary tumor-like virus (MMTV) is present in human breast tissue before development of virally associated breast cancer. Infect Agent Cancer 2017; 12:1. [PMID: 28053656 PMCID: PMC5209856 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-016-0113-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is substantial evidence that a virus homologous to mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) may have a role in human breast cancer. The present study indicates that those who developed breast cancer associated with an MMTV-like virus had this virus in their non-cancerous breast tissues years before the cancer developed. Methods Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques and sequencing were used to identify MMTV-like envelope gene sequences (MMTV-like env sequences) in Australian benign breast biopsy specimens from women who several years later developed breast cancer. Murine contamination was excluded by stringent laboratory procedures, and the absence of intracisternal A particle sequences and mitochondrial cyclooxygenase sequences. Results MMTV-like env sequences (also called HMTV sequences to denote their source) were found in 9 of 25 breast cancer specimens (36%). Among 25 non-cancerous breast biopsies of these same patients taken 1 to 11 years earlier, six contained MMTV-like sequences (24%). Five of the six were among the nine virally-associated breast cancers. In two pairs of specimens, benign and malignant, env sequences were 97% identical. Conclusions The identification of MMTV (MMTV-like) sequences in breast tissues prior to the development of MMTV positive breast cancer fulfills a key criterion for a possible causal role for the MMTV-like virus in human breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teiko Nartey
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY USA
| | | | - Stella Melana
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY USA
| | - Wendy K Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Noel J Whitaker
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - James S Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Gunzburg WH, Salmons B. Commentary: With a little help from my enteric microbial friends. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:1029. [PMID: 26441949 PMCID: PMC4585321 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.01029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Walter H Gunzburg
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Austria
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22
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Salmons B, Lawson JS, Günzburg WH. Recent developments linking retroviruses to human breast cancer: infectious agent, enemy within or both? J Gen Virol 2014; 95:2589-2593. [PMID: 25217613 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.070631-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence is accumulating that one or more beta-retrovirus is associated with human breast cancer. Retroviruses can exist as an infectious (exogenous) virus or as a part of the genetic information of cells due to germline integration (endogenous). An exogenous virus with a genome that is highly homologous to mouse mammary tumour virus is gaining acceptance as possibly being associated with human breast cancer, and recently furnished evidence is discussed in this article, as is the evidence for involvement of an endogenous human beta-retrovirus, HERV-K. Modes of interaction are also reviewed and linkages to the APOBEC3 family are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Salmons
- Austrianova, 20 Biopolis Way, 05-518 Centros, Republic of Singapore 138668
| | - James S Lawson
- School of Public Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Walter H Günzburg
- Institute of Virology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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Nartey T, Moran H, Marin T, Arcaro KF, Anderton DL, Etkind P, Holland JF, Melana SM, Pogo BGT. Human Mammary Tumor Virus (HMTV) sequences in human milk. Infect Agent Cancer 2014; 9:20. [PMID: 25120582 PMCID: PMC4129428 DOI: 10.1186/1750-9378-9-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Retroviral sequences 90-95% homologous to the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) were present in 38% of the breast cancers studied from American women and were not detectable in non-tumor breast tissue from the same patient. The entire proviral structure was described and viral particles were isolated from primary cultures of human breast cancer. This virus was designated as human mammary tumor virus (HMTV). Hormone response elements present in the HMTV Long-Terminal-Repeat (LTR) suggest a mechanism for association of HMTV with hormonally responding tissues. In fact, the incidence of HMTV sequences is higher in gestational breast cancers, which are associated with hormonal changes. Milk epithelial cells are also under hormonal regulation and therefore are excellent specimens for HMTV sequence detection. Methods The HMTV sequence was studied in milk samples from lactating women recruited with increased risk of breast cancer because they had undergone breast biopsies (Biopsy-Group) and lactating women without breast biopsies (Reference-Group). Results HMTV-env sequences were detected by PCR in milk of 7.61% of 92 women of the Reference-Group and in 20.55% of 73 women of the Biopsy-Group (p: 0.015). The sequences were 94-98% homologous to MMTV. HMTV-env and HMTV-env/LTR junction sequences were detected in high-speed pellet RNA, implying the presence of HMTV viral particles. PCR assays to detect the murine mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase gene and intracisternal-A-type particle sequences were performed to rule out mouse mitochondrial or genomic DNA contamination. Eight women of the 73 Biopsy-Group participants had breast cancer and the milk of only one of these eight women had HMTV-env sequences. In the remaining 65 women of the Biopsy-Group, under enough clinical suspicion to lead to biopsy, HMTV was detected in 14, nearly three times the number of milks as compared to the Reference-Group (21.54% versus 7.61%; p: 0.016). Conclusion The significance of HMTV in milk from the Reference-Group, the greater frequency in the milk of women who had undergone a breast biopsy and its possible infectivity for infants are important questions under study. The similarity of HMTV to MMTV is striking and suggests one possible avenue for viral transmission in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teiko Nartey
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Heberth Moran
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Tania Marin
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Kathleen F Arcaro
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, 240 Thatcher Road, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Douglas L Anderton
- Department of Sociology, Sloan College, University of South Carolina, Rm 321. 911 Pickens St., Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Polly Etkind
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - James F Holland
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Stella M Melana
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Beatriz G-T Pogo
- The Tisch Cancer Institute and Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA ; Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
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Salmons B, Gunzburg WH. Revisiting a role for a mammary tumor retrovirus in human breast cancer. Int J Cancer 2013; 133:1530-5. [DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Salmons
- SG Austria; 20 Biopolis Way #05-518 Centros; Singapore; Singapore
| | - Walter H. Gunzburg
- Institute of Virology; Department of Pathobiology; University of Veterinary Medicine; Vienna; Austria
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Glenn WK, Whitaker NJ, Lawson JS. High risk human papillomavirus and Epstein Barr virus in human breast milk. BMC Res Notes 2012; 5:477. [PMID: 22937830 PMCID: PMC3492016 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-5-477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus, Epstein Barr virus (EBV) and mouse mammary tumour virus have been identified in human milk. High risk human papillomavirus (HPV) sequences have been identified in breast cancer. The aim of this study is to determine if viral sequences are present in human milk from normal lactating women. FINDINGS Standard (liquid) and in situ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques were used to identify HPV and EBV in human milk samples from normal lactating Australian women who had no history of breast cancer.High risk human papillomavirus was identified in milk samples of 6 of 40 (15%) from normal lactating women - sequencing on four samples showed three were HPV 16 and one was HPV 18. Epstein Barr virus was identified in fourteen samples (33%). CONCLUSION The presence of high risk HPV and EBV in human milk suggests the possibility of milk transmission of these viruses. However, given the rarity of viral associated malignancies in young people, it is possible but unlikely, that such transmission is associated with breast or other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy K Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Noel J Whitaker
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - James S Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Glenn WK, Heng B, Delprado W, Iacopetta B, Whitaker NJ, Lawson JS. Epstein-Barr virus, human papillomavirus and mouse mammary tumour virus as multiple viruses in breast cancer. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48788. [PMID: 23183846 PMCID: PMC3501510 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this investigation is to determine if Epstein Barr virus (EBV), high risk human papillomavirus (HPV), and mouse mammary tumour viruses (MMTV) co-exist in some breast cancers. MATERIALS AND METHODS All the specimens were from women residing in Australia. For investigations based on standard PCR, we used fresh frozen DNA extracts from 50 unselected invasive breast cancers. For normal breast specimens, we used DNA extracts from epithelial cells from milk donated by 40 lactating women. For investigations based on in situ PCR we used 27 unselected archival formalin fixed breast cancer specimens and 18 unselected archival formalin fixed normal breast specimens from women who had breast reduction surgery. Thirteen of these fixed breast cancer specimens were ductal carcinoma in situ (dcis) and 14 were predominantly invasive ductal carcinomas (idc). RESULTS EBV sequences were identified in 68%, high risk HPV sequences in 50%, and MMTV sequences in 78% of DNA extracted from 50 invasive breast cancer specimens. These same viruses were identified in selected normal and breast cancer specimens by in situ PCR. Sequences from more than one viral type were identified in 72% of the same breast cancer specimens. Normal controls showed these viruses were also present in epithelial cells in human milk - EBV (35%), HPV, 20%) and MMTV (32%) of 40 milk samples from normal lactating women, with multiple viruses being identified in 13% of the same milk samples. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that (i) EBV, HPV and MMTV gene sequences are present and co-exist in many human breast cancers, (ii) the presence of these viruses in breast cancer is associated with young age of diagnosis and possibly an increased grade of breast cancer.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Breast Neoplasms/virology
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/pathology
- Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating/virology
- Case-Control Studies
- Cell Nucleus/virology
- DNA, Neoplasm/genetics
- Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens/metabolism
- Female
- Genome, Viral/genetics
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/genetics
- Humans
- Lipopolysaccharide Receptors/metabolism
- Mammary Tumor Virus, Mouse/genetics
- Mice
- Middle Aged
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Neoplasm Grading
- Neoplasm Invasiveness
- Papillomaviridae/genetics
- Receptor, ErbB-2/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism
- Viral Matrix Proteins/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy K. Glenn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benjamin Heng
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Barry Iacopetta
- University Department of Surgery, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Noel J. Whitaker
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - James S. Lawson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Mazzanti CM, Al Hamad M, Fanelli G, Scatena C, Zammarchi F, Zavaglia K, Lessi F, Pistello M, Naccarato AG, Bevilacqua G. A mouse mammary tumor virus env-like exogenous sequence is strictly related to progression of human sporadic breast carcinoma. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 179:2083-90. [PMID: 21854742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2011] [Revised: 05/15/2011] [Accepted: 06/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A viral etiology of human breast cancer (HBC) has been postulated for decades since the identification of mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). The detection of MMTV env-like exogenous sequences (MMTVels) in 30% to 40% of invasive HBCs increased attention to this hypothesis. Looking for MMTVels during cancer progression may contribute to a better understanding of their role in HBC. Herein, we analyzed HBC preinvasive lesions for the presence of MMTVels. Samples were obtained by laser microdissection of FFPE tissues: 20 usual-type ductal hyperplasias, 22 atypical ductal hyperplasias (ADHs), 49 ductal carcinomas in situ (DCISs), 20 infiltrating ductal carcinomas (IDCs), and 26 normal epithelial cells collateral to a DCIS or an IDC. Controls included reductive mammoplastic tissue, thyroid and colon carcinoma, and blood samples from healthy donors. MMTVels were detected by fluorescence-nested PCR. DNA samples from the tissues of nine patients were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR, revealing a different viral load correlated with stage of progression. Furthermore, as never previously described, the presence of MMTVels was investigated by chromogenic in situ hybridization. MMTVels were found in 19% of normal epithelial cells collateral to a DCIS or an IDC, 27% of ADHs, 82% of DCISs, and 35% of IDCs. No MMTVels were found in the control samples. Quantitative PCR and chromogenic in situ hybridization confirmed these results. These data could contribute to our understanding of the role of MMTVels in HBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Maria Mazzanti
- Division of Surgical, Molecular, and Ultrastructural Pathology, University of Pisa and Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
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