Hypothesis and Experimental Objectives
The primary goal was to determine if we could alter the growth state of breast cancer cells using either drugs which affect ion channel activity or that block estrogen receptors. The long term goal of our study is to aid in the development of appropriate treatment strategies to decrease tumor expansion through a better understanding of the cellular and molecular pathways leading to cell proliferation, apoptosis and growth arrest. This knowledge will be essential to drug discovery and development, particularly with respect in identifying novel proteins which may represent possible targets for anticancer drugs.
Specific Experimental Objectives
1. To determine whether the calcium channel blockers Pimozide and Mibefradil induce cell death via either apoptosis or necrosis
2. To compare the above results with the estrogen receptor blocker Tamoxifin