Metalloprotease-dependent activation of EGFR modulates CD44⁺/CD24^- populations in triple negative breast cancer cells through the MEK/ERK pathway.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The CD44⁺/CD24^- cell phenotype is enriched in triple negative breast cancers, is associated with tumor invasive properties, and serves as a cell surface marker profile of breast cancer stem-like cells. Activation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) promotes the CD44⁺/CD24^- phenotype, but the specific signaling pathway downstream of EGFR responsible for this effect is not clear. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of the MEK/ERK pathway in the expansion of CD44⁺/CD24^- populations in TNBC cells in response to EGFR activation.

Methods

Representative TNBC cell lines SUM159PT (claudin-low) and SUM149PT (basal) were used to evaluate cell surface expression of CD44 and CD24 by flow cyto

SUBMITTER: Wise R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5669811 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature