Using the MCF10A/MCF10CA1a breast cancer progression cell line model to investigate the effect of active, mutant forms of EGFR in breast cancer development and treatment using gefitinib

Abstract

Background: Basal-like and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) share common molecular features, poor prognosis and a propensity for metastasis to the brain. Amplification of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) occurs in ∼50% of basal-like breast cancer, and mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have been reported in up to ∼ 10% of Asian TNBC patients. In non-small cell lung cancer several different mutations in the EGFR tyrosine kinase domain confer sensitivity to receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors, but the tumourigenic potential of EGFR mutations in breast cells and their potential for targeted therapy is unknown. Materials and Methods: Constructs containing wild ty..