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Stem Cells in Breast Cancer

Is there a link between BRCA1 mutations and cancer stem cells?

Watch the video as Dr. Wicha explains why the number of breast cancer stem cells is important

BRCA1 is a tumor suppressor gene known to be strongly linked to breast cancer. Mutations in this gene increase the risk of developing aggressive breast and ovarian cancer. Mutant forms of BRCA1 account for about 5 percent to 10 percent of cases of hereditary breast cancer. U-M Cancer Center scientists have recently discovered that BRCA1 regulates self-renewal of cancer stem cells. When the gene is mutated, cancer stem cells multiply abnormally, increasing the risk of cancer.

What type of treatment will be tested in the U-M clinical trial?

In 2008, the Cancer Center will begin the world's first clinical trial for women with advanced breast cancer that has not responded to traditional therapy. We will test a new drug combined with chemotherapy in an attempt to attack all cells in the tumor simultaneously.

Currently, the breast cancer stem cell clinical trial is still in the planning stages and is not enrolling patients. It will be a small study involving just a few patients with advanced cancer that has not responded to therapy.

How can I learn about clinical trials?

Information about is available on the Clinical Trials web page. You can also call the Cancer AnswerLine at 800-865-1125.

Stem cells in breast cancer:    1     2     3    4

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This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.

This information is part of the U-M Health System. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. © 2008 The Regents of the University of Michigan

Learn more:
In 2003, U-M Cancer Center scientists discovered the fingerprint for breast cancer stem cells. Read the press release.

Stem cell research at the University of Michigan
Stem Cells - Explained and Explored

Other stem cell resources
National Institutes of Health Web site on stem cells

International Society for Stem Cell Research

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University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
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Ann Arbor, MI 48109

This site is part of the U-M Health System. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. © 2008 U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center