Triiodothyronine receptors (TR) are present in breast cancer tissues

Abstract

Introduction: Possible relationships between breast cancer and thyroid hormones have been suggested for many years. The aim of this study was qualitative examination of triiodothyronine receptors (TR) in breast cancer tissues and in non cancerous breast tissue taken from the opposite side to the localization of the tumor.
Material and methods: The material consisted of 15 breast cancer tissues of grades G1 to G3 and the same number of control tissues obtained during radical mastectomy or local tumor resection. Tissues were homogenized. Protein fraction was isolated. Protein for TR was assessed in Western Blot reaction.
Results: Protein fraction for TR was present in all cancer tissues and 6 healthy controls.
Conclusions: Obtained data may suggest so far unknown role of thyroid hormones and their nuclear receptors in the generation and development of breast cancer.