Participation of NADPH oxidase 2 induced by estrogen in the formation of DNA damage and autophagy regulation in breast cells

Abstract

The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in carcinogenesis is well described, but the source of these molecules in breast cancer remains controversial. The cells normally produce ROS as a by-product of the reactions catalyzed by xanthine oxidase and ciclooxigenase, among others, and the electron escape from mitochondria respiratory chain. On the other hand, there are enzymes, called NADPH Oxidases (NOX), which are specialized in ROS production. Studies about the relationship between NOX activity and cancer development are recent and until now there are no studies showing the involvement of NOX as a risk factor for the development of breast cancer. So, we aim to evaluate whether the oxidative stress induced by estrogen in mammary cells involves the regulation of NOX expression and activity. We will also try to elucidate the functional consequences of oxidative stress induced by NOX, such as oxidative DNA damage and cell survival or death related mechanisms. Thus, we aim to give new insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms of breast cancer development and progression, which can be useful for the development of new tools to treat and prevent breast cancer. (AU)