Gene expression analysis of ER+ and ER- breast cancer cell lines with acquired resistance to palbociclib

ABSTRACT: While targeted therapies directed against cancer cells have proven effective, their clinical benefit is often limited by acquired resistance. This clinical challenge underscores the importance of uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind resistance in order to develop novel targets and drug combinations that can stop the growth of cancer cells. Two pivotal pathways controlling tumor growth are glucose metabolism and cell cycle. PFKFB3 and CDK4/6 are key regulators of glucose metabolism and cell cycle respectively for which inhibitors have been developed. PFK158 is an inhibitor against PFKFB3 that is currently undergoing phase I clinical trials and has shown to be effective at blocking glucose metabolism in solid tumors. Palbociclib, a novel CDK4/6 inhibitor was recently approved as a first-line approach for the treatment of estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer because of the very promising clinical responses in ER+ breast cancer patients. Unfortunately, the effects of these therapies are short-lasting since cancer cells ultimately develop resistance allowing them to escape treatment. To identify the molecular mechanisms driving resistance to PFK158 or palbociclib, we have generated ER+ MCF7 and ER- MDA-MB231 cells resistant to either PFK158 or palbociclib by continuous exposure to increasing doses of drugs for a period of three months. Our hypothesis is that resistance is driven by activating mutations and/or pathways acquired during the course of treatment. This study is designed to identify specific mutations and/or changes in gene expression responsible for the resistance to PFK158 or palbociclib in ER+ and ER- in vitro. The results of this study will lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance to PFKFB3 and CDK4/6 inhibitors.

ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens

PROVIDER: GSE130437 | GEO | 2019/06/20

REPOSITORIES: GEO