European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: The mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-like env gene have
previously been reported to be present in some human breast cancers, however, their
role in developing that cancers is still unclear.
Aim: This study aims to investigate the presence of MMTV-like env gene among
Iraqi women who have breast cancers.
Methods: The prevalence of MMTV-like env gene and beta-globulin gene in
formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) breast tissue specimens of 88 Iraqi women
with breast cancers was detected using conventional PCR and Real- Time techniques.
Eight benign breast tumors’ specimens were also used as controls. Fisher’s exact test
was used to analyse data.
Results: MMTV-like env gene were detected in 16 (18.8%) specimens of those with
breast malignancies, while they were not identified in benign breast tumors
specimens. However, no significant difference between two groups was noted.
Conclusion: MMTV-like env and beta-globin genes were detected in Iraqi women
with breast cancer, and further research is needed to study the role and association of
these env gene with cancer development.