Tumour-associated Macrophages (TAMs) And Their Role In Breast Cancer Metastasis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$72,537.00
Summary
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) have been implicated in breast cancer spread. Tumour cell behaviour is influenced by the surrounding environment. This study will determine the relationship of TAMs to other cell populations, if the expression of the enzyme, u-PA, in non-tumour cells within the tumour environment is important for breast cancer spread, and whether TAM precursor white blood cells home to the primary tumour and-or to the site of tumour spread before the arrival of tumour cells.
CSF-1 Regulation Of Macrophage Adhesion And Motility And Promotion Of Tumour Invasion And Metastasis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$323,453.00
Summary
Macrophages, a type of white blood cell, infiltrate tumours and encourage tumour cells to metastasize. The mechanism involves secretion of a macrophage motility factor, CSF-1, by the tumour cells and secretion of a tumour cell motility factor by the macrophages to stimulate co-migration, invasion and metastasis. CSF-1 controls macrophage motility via the CSF-1 receptor. Dissection of receptor signalling pathways to macrophage motility will identify therapeutic targets to prevent tumour spread.