In vitro proton NMR spectroscopy of extracts from human breast tumours and non-involved breast tissue.

Proton (1H) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra were obtained from perchloric acid (PCA) extracts of 11 breast tumours and non-involved breast tissue from 7 of the same patients. The spectra were correlated with histopathologic diagnosis. The tumour group consisted of 8 ductal carcinomas, 1 ductal carcinoma with an extensive intraductal component, 1 intraductal carcinoma and 1 fibroadenoma. Higher content of lactate, succinate and phosphocholine and low levels of glucose and inositol were characteristic findings in the tumour group as compared to non-involved breast tissue. 1H NMR spectra of PCA extracted breast specimens provide a comprehensive window into the metabolic activities of the tissue.