Presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins in human milk fat globules after delivery

Biochim Biophys Acta. 2002 Jan 2;1586(1):50-6. doi: 10.1016/s0925-4439(01)00085-0.

Abstract

We evaluated BRCA1 and BRCA2 oncosuppressor protein expression in 26 milk samples in women just after delivery. The quantification of BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins was performed in isolated milk fat globules using an affinity chromatography strategy. The amounts of BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins were found to be similar. We explained the presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins in human milk fat globules by the fact that they are formed by exocytosis of lipids from epithelial cells of the mammary gland and are enveloped by plasma membrane from the apical part of the milk-secreting cells. This raises the possibility that BRCA1 and BRCA2 proteins are a protective response to proliferation and play a possible role in newborn nutrition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • BRCA1 Protein / analysis*
  • BRCA1 Protein / immunology
  • BRCA2 Protein / analysis*
  • BRCA2 Protein / immunology
  • Chromatography, Affinity
  • Delivery, Obstetric
  • Female
  • Glycolipids / chemistry*
  • Glycolipids / isolation & purification
  • Glycoproteins / chemistry*
  • Glycoproteins / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Lipid Droplets
  • Milk, Human / chemistry*
  • Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • BRCA1 Protein
  • BRCA2 Protein
  • Glycolipids
  • Glycoproteins
  • milk fat globule