WASHINGTON — Researchers have identified a protein, lipocalin 2 (Lcn2), that facilitates the spread of breast cancer cells and can be detected in the urine of women with aggressive forms of the disease. This breakthrough offers a potentially painless diagnostic method for patients.
The study conducted by a team at Children’s Hospital Boston revealed that Lcn2 is significantly associated with estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast tumors, which are notoriously difficult to treat. Standard treatments like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors are often ineffective against these types of tumors.
Previous research indicated that Lcn2 leaks from breast tumors into breast ducts, prompting the investigation into its presence in bodily fluids. The team analyzed urine samples from both healthy women and those diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, finding elevated Lcn2 levels in the latter group.
“Our study identifies a novel, additional player in the complex development of invasive breast cancer,” said Marsha Moses, one of the lead researchers. The discovery could pave the way for new treatments targeting this protein, potentially improving outcomes for patients with aggressive breast cancer.
The findings were published in the latest issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlighting the significance of Lcn2 in breast cancer progression and its potential role as a biomarker for disease status.