An elongation factor-like protein (EF-Tu) elicits a humoral response in infiltrating ductal breast carcinomas: an immunoproteomics investigation.

Abstract Objectives In the current study, we have used an immunoproteomics approach to identify proteins that commonly elicit a humoral response in patients with infiltrating ductal carcinomas of the breast. Design and methods Sera obtained at the time of diagnosis from 40 patients with invasive breast cancer and 42 healthy controls were screened for the presence of IgG antibodies to MCF-7 cell line proteins using a serological proteomics-based approach. Results An immunoreactive protein detected in sera from 21 of 40 patients was isolated and subsequently identified as elongation factor-Tu. Conclusions The immunoproteomic approach implemented here offers a powerful tool for determining nov…