DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair analysis in epithelial mesenchymal transition cells (EMTs) derived from breast cancer specimens identifies new prognostic markers

Background: All currently known breast cancer susceptibility genes are linked to DSB repair. To find novel markers for breast cancer risk, we analyzed DSB repair in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from high-risk individuals and revealed highly significant increases of error-prone mechanisms such as non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). To additionally capture non-hereditary factors as potential prognostic markers, we established a new primary cell model resembling breast cancer specimens and scrutinized DSB repair. Material and methods: We developed a protocol for isolation and ex vivo analysis of epithelial ce…