Moreover, the modulation of PICK1 expression by VIM through altering the 3′ UTR length hints at a potential role for APA in cancer progression, similar to the application of comprehensive genomic analyses in the interpretation and staging of lung cancer,33, 34 suggesting that the length of the 3′ UTR might be a significant factor in the staging or prognosis of breast cancer. This evidence concerns the gene PICK1 and breast carcinoma.