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Liang W, Yang X, Li X, Wang P, Zhu Z, Liu S, Xu D, Zhi X, Xue J. Investigating gene signatures associated with immunity in colon adenocarcinoma to predict the immunotherapy effectiveness using NFM and WGCNA algorithms. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7596-7621. [PMID: 38742936 PMCID: PMC11131999 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD), a frequently encountered and highly lethal malignancy of the digestive system, has been the focus of intensive research regarding its prognosis. The intricate immune microenvironment plays a pivotal role in the pathological progression of COAD; nevertheless, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. This study aims to explore the immune gene expression patterns in COAD, construct a robust prognostic model, and delve into the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis, thereby providing critical support for individualized treatment strategies and prognostic evaluation. Initially, we curated a comprehensive dataset by screening 2600 immune-related genes (IRGs) from the ImmPort and InnateDB databases, successfully obtaining a rich data resource. Subsequently, the COAD patient cohort was classified using the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm, enabling accurate categorization. Continuing on, utilizing the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method, we analyzed the top 5000 genes with the smallest p-values among the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between immune subtypes. Through this rigorous screening process, we identified the gene modules with the strongest correlation to the COAD subpopulation, and the intersection of genes in these modules with DEGs (COAD vs COAD vs Normal colon tissue) is referred to as Differentially Expressed Immune Genes Associated with COAD (DEIGRC). Employing diverse bioinformatics methodologies, we successfully developed a prognostic model (DPM) consisting of six genes derived from the DEIGRC, which was further validated across multiple independent datasets. Not only does this predictive model accurately forecast the prognosis of COAD patients, but it also provides valuable insights for formulating personalized treatment regimens. Within the constructed DPM, we observed a downregulation of CALB2 expression levels in COAD tissues, whereas NOXA1, KDF1, LARS2, GSR, and TIMP1 exhibited upregulated expression levels. These genes likely play indispensable roles in the initiation and progression of COAD and thus represent potential therapeutic targets for patient management. Furthermore, our investigation into the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis revealed associations with relevant processes such as fat digestion and absorption, cancer gene protein polysaccharides, and nitrogen metabolism. Consequently, genes including CAV1, ANXA1, CPS1, EDNRA, and GC emerge as promising candidates as therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis, thereby providing crucial insights for future clinical practices and drug development. In summary, this study uncovers the immune gene expression patterns in COAD, establishes a robust prognostic model, and elucidates the molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for COAD liver metastasis, thereby possessing significant theoretical and clinical implications. These findings are anticipated to offer substantial support for both the treatment and prognosis management of COAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizheng Liang
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Xiangyu Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong 400010, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiushen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Zhenpeng Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Bioimaging Core of Shenzhen Bay Laboratory Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518132, Guangdong, China
| | - Dandan Xu
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Xuejun Zhi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
| | - Jun Xue
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou 075000, Hebei, China
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Zeng X, Sun L, Ling X, Jiang Y, Shen J, Liang L, Zhang X. Comprehensive analysis identifies novel targets of gemcitabine to improve chemotherapy treatment strategies for colorectal cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1170526. [PMID: 37664836 PMCID: PMC10471186 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1170526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gemcitabine (GEM) is a second-line anticancer drug of choice for some colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, and GEM inability to be commonly available in the clinic due to the lack of clarity of the exact action targets. Methods The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of GEM treatment for 42 CRC cell lines were accessed from the Genomics of Drug sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) database. High-throughput sequencing data of CRC patients were captured in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted. Pearson correlations were derived for GEM potency-related genes. Differential analysis was conducted in the TCGA cohort to obtain CRC development-related genes (CDRGs), and univariate COX model analysis was performed on CDRGs overlapping with GEM potency-related genes to obtain CDRGs affecting CRC prognosis. Hub genes affecting GEM potency were identified by Spearman correlation. Results CALB2 and GPX3 were identified as potential targets for GEM treatment of CRC via prognostic analysis, which we also observed to be elevated with elevated clinical stage in CRC patients. The enhanced expression of CALB2 and GPX3 genes identified in the pathway analysis might inhibit the body metabolism as well as activate immune and inflammation related pathways. In addition, we found that CALB2 and GPX3 could also be considered as prognostic biomarkers in pan-cancer. Finally, we found that CALB2 and GPX3 were remarkably associated with the drug sensitivity of MG-132, Dasatinib, Shikonin, Midostaurin, MS-275, and Z-LNle-CHO, which were expected to be the drugs of choice for GEM combination. Conclusion CALB2 and GPX3 represent prognostic biomarkers for CRC and they might be potential action targets for GEM. Our study offered innovative ideas for GEM administration strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Zeng
- Second Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liyue Sun
- Second Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Ling
- Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuying Jiang
- Second Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Ju Shen
- Second Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lei Liang
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Chinese Medicine & Disease Susceptibility, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuhui Zhang
- Second Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Askan G, Basturk O. Expression of Calretinin, Marker of Mesothelial Differentiation, in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall. Turk Patoloji Derg 2021; 37:115-120. [PMID: 33432559 PMCID: PMC10512685 DOI: 10.5146/tjpath.2020.01519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is one of the most common causes of "peritoneal carcinomatosis" and has an insidious growth pattern. Thus, it falls into the differential diagnosis of other peritoneal malignancies including malignant mesothelioma. Recently, we have encountered an undifferentiated pancreatic carcinoma presenting with peritoneal disease and exhibiting immunoreactivity to calretinin, mimicking mesothelioma. In this study, we explored the incidence of calretinin expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS Calretinin immunohistochemical staining was performed on the tissue microarrays (TMAs), which were created using three 0.6 mm diameter punches per tumor (n=113). Distribution and intensity of expression were evaluated. RESULTS The TMAs contained 86 well/moderately differentiated and 27 poorly differentiated/undifferentiated carcinomas. Calretinin was positive in nine tumors (8%); six with diffuse and strong staining, three with focal and/or weak staining. The incidence of calretinin expression was 15% in poorly differentiated/undifferentiated carcinomas (vs. 6% in well/moderately differentiated carcinomas, p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, especially when poorly differentiated/undifferentiated, may be diffusely and strongly positive for calretinin creating a potential diagnostic challenge with malignant mesothelioma. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using this marker to explore a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. Tumors expressing calretinin without other mesothelial markers should prompt a careful evaluation of the morphologic and immunohistochemical features to exclude other malignancies. If the diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is considered, ductal differentiation can be demonstrated by using additional immunohistochemical markers such as mucin-related glycoproteins (MUC1, MUC5AC) and/or oncoproteins (CEA, B72.3, CA125).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokce Askan
- Department of Pathology, Rize University Training and Research Hospital, Rize, Turkey
| | - Olca Basturk
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
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Blum W, Henzi T, Châtel-Soulet HE, Pecze L, Rodriguez JW, Vrugt B, Schwaller B. Absence of calretinin protein expression in malignant mesotheliomas from asbestos-exposed NF2 +/- mice and mouse mesothelioma cell lines from various mouse strains. Biomark Res 2018; 6:19. [PMID: 29928505 PMCID: PMC5989366 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-018-0132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Calretinin is the most widespread positive marker for the immunohistochemical identification of malignant mesothelioma (MM) and was proposed to serve as a blood-based biomarker. Functionally, evidence has accumulated that calretinin might be implicated in MM tumorigenesis. We aimed to identify calretinin (CR; Calb2) in murine MM and reactive mesothelial cells in granuloma from asbestos-exposed NF2+/− mice, a line heterozygous for the tumor suppressor merlin (NF2), used as a mouse MM model. Additionally, we sought to ascertain the presence of calretinin in MM cell lines from other mouse strains. We also intended to investigate the role of calretinin in mesotheliomagenesis by comparing the survival of asbestos-exposed NF2+/− and NF2+/-CR−/− mice. Methods NF2+/− and NF2+/-CR−/− mice, both lines on a C57Bl/6J background, were exposed to asbestos following an established protocol. Tumor histology and asbestos-induced mortality were assessed. MM and granuloma from NF2+/− mice were analyzed with immunohistochemical methods for calretinin expression. Levels of Calb2 mRNA and calretinin expression in tumors and MM cell lines of various mouse strains were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Results No expression of calretinin at the protein level was detected, neither in MM from NF2+/− mice, NF2+/− MM-derived cell lines nor immortalized mesothelial cells of mouse origin. At the mRNA level we detected Calb2 expression in MM cell lines from different mouse strains. Survival of NF2+/− and NF2+/-CR−/− mice exposed to asbestos showed no significant difference in a log-rank (Kaplan-Meier) comparison. Conclusions The concomitant determination of calretinin and mesothelin blood levels has been proposed for early detection of human MM. Mouse MM models based on asbestos exposure are assumed to yield helpful information on the time course of appearance of mesothelin and calretinin in the blood of asbestos-treated mice determining the earliest time point for interventions. However, the observed absence of calretinin in MM from NF2+/− mice and derived cell lines, as well as from MM cells from Balb/c and C3H mice likely precludes the use of calretinin as a biomarker for mouse MM. The results also indicate possible species differences with respect to an involvement of calretinin in the formation of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Blum
- 1Anatomy, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Henzi
- 1Anatomy, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Laszlo Pecze
- 1Anatomy, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Bart Vrugt
- 2Institute of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Schwaller
- 1Anatomy, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
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The role of enteric neurons in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2017; 1868:420-434. [PMID: 28847715 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the intrinsic neural network of the gastrointestinal tract, which is essential for regulating gut functions and intestinal homeostasis. The importance of the ENS is underscored by the existence of severe gastrointestinal diseases, such as Hirschsprung's disease and intestinal pseudo-obstruction, which arise when the ENS fails to develop normally or becomes dysregulated. Moreover, it is known that enteric neurons are involved in intestinal inflammation. However, the role of the ENS in colorectal cancer (CRC) carcinogenesis remains poorly understood, even though processes like perineural invasion and neoneurogenesis are important factors in CRC. Here we summarize how enteric neurons are affected during CRC and discuss the influence of enteric neurons, either direct or indirect, on the development and/or progression of CRC. Finally, we illustrate how the ENS could be targeted as a potential anti-cancer therapy, establishing the ENS as an integral part of the tumor microenvironment.
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Aberrant Expression of Calretinin, D2-40 and Mesothelin in Mucinous and Non-Mucinous Colorectal Carcinomas and Relation to Clinicopathological Features and Prognosis. Pathol Oncol Res 2016; 22:725-32. [PMID: 27062033 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-016-0060-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
CRC is a heterogeneous disease in terms of morphology, invasive behavior, metastatic capacity, and clinical outcome. Recently, many so-called mesothelial markers, including calretinin, D2-40, WT1, thrombomodulin, mesothelin, and others, have been certified. The aim of this study was to assess the immunohistochemical expression of calretinin and other mesothelial markers (D2-40 and mesothelin) in colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma (MA) and non mucinous adenocarcinoma (NMA) specimens and relation to clinicopathological features and prognosis using manual tissue microarray technique. We studied tumor tissue specimens from 150 patients with colorectal MA and NMA who underwent radical surgery from January 2007 to January 2012. High-density manual tissue microarrays were constructed using a modified mechanical pencil tip technique, and paraffin sections were submitted for immunohistochemistry using Calretinin, D2-40 and mesothelin expressions. We found that NMA showed significantly more calretinin and D2-40 expression than MA In contrast, no statistically significant difference between NMA and MA was detected in mesothelin expression. There were no statistically significant relations between any of the clinicopathological or histological parameters and any of the three markers. In a univariate analysis, neither calretinin nor D2-40 expressions showed any significant relations to DFS or OS. However, mesothelin luminal expression was significantly associated with worse DFS. Multivariate Cox regression analysis proved that luminal mesothelin expression was an independent negative prognostic factor in NMA. In conclusion, Calretinin, D2-40 and mesothelin are aberrantly expressed in a proportion of CRC cases with more expression in NMA than MA. Aberrant expression of these mesothelial markers was not associated with clinicopathological or histological features of CRCs. Only mesothelin expression appears to be a strong predictor of adverse prognosis.
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Asav E, Sağıroğlu A, Sezgintürk MK. Quantitative Analysis of a Promising Cancer Biomarker, Calretinin, by a Biosensing System Based on Simple and Effective Immobilization Process. ELECTROANAL 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.201500324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Pecze L, Blum W, Schwaller B. Routes of Ca2+ Shuttling during Ca2+ Oscillations: FOCUS ON THE ROLE OF MITOCHONDRIAL Ca2+ HANDLING AND CYTOSOLIC Ca2+ BUFFERS. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:28214-28230. [PMID: 26396196 PMCID: PMC4653679 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.663179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In some cell types, Ca2+ oscillations are strictly dependent on Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane, whereas in others, oscillations also persist in the absence of Ca2+ influx. We observed that, in primary mesothelial cells, the plasmalemmal Ca2+ influx played a pivotal role. However, when the Ca2+ transport across the plasma membrane by the “lanthanum insulation method” was blocked prior to the induction of the serum-induced Ca2+ oscillations, mitochondrial Ca2+ transport was found to be able to substitute for the plasmalemmal Ca2+ exchange function, thus rendering the oscillations independent of extracellular Ca2+. However, in a physiological situation, the Ca2+-buffering capacity of mitochondria was found not to be essential for Ca2+ oscillations. Moreover, brief spontaneous Ca2+ changes were observed in the mitochondrial Ca2+ concentration without apparent changes in the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, indicating the presence of a mitochondrial autonomous Ca2+ signaling mechanism. In the presence of calretinin, a Ca2+-buffering protein, the amplitude of cytosolic spikes during oscillations was decreased, and the amount of Ca2+ ions taken up by mitochondria was reduced. Thus, the increased calretinin expression observed in mesothelioma cells and in certain colon cancer might be correlated to the increased resistance of these tumor cells to proapoptotic/pronecrotic signals. We identified and characterized (experimentally and by modeling) three Ca2+ shuttling pathways in primary mesothelial cells during Ca2+ oscillations: Ca2+ shuttled between (i) the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria, (ii) the ER and the extracellular space, and (iii) the ER and cytoplasmic Ca2+ buffers.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Pecze
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | - Walter Blum
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Beat Schwaller
- Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
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Zhang L, Frank R, Furth EE, Ziober AF, LiVolsi VA, Zhang PJ. Expression and diagnostic values of calretinin and CK5/6 in cholangiocarcinoma. Exp Hematol Oncol 2014; 3:12. [PMID: 24860692 PMCID: PMC4032162 DOI: 10.1186/2162-3619-3-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesothelin, a mesothelial marker, has been found expressed in and as a potential treatment target of cholangioacarcinoma (CC). It is possible that CC may be derived from the cells sharing mesothelial markers. However, the expression of other mesothelial markers in CC is largely unknown. METHODS Thirty CC cases (10 extrahepatic and 20 intrahepatic) were retrieved from our institutional archive. The immunohistochemical study of Calretinin (DC8), WT1 (6F-H2), Lymphatic Endothelial Marker (D2-40), CK5/6 (D5/16 B4) and CK19 (b170) was done on formalin fixed paraffin embedded sections for 2-3 blocks of each case. We compared the expression levels between CC and normal bile duct (NBD) on the same block. RESULTS All of the CC and NBD are positive for CK19 (23/23) and negative for WT1 (0/23) and D2-40 (0/23), except one CC positive for D2-40(1/30, 3.3%) and one NBD positive for WT1 (1/23, 4.3%). Calretinin immunoreactivity was detected in 52.2% (12/23) of CC, but none in NBD (0/23). CK5/6 was also detectable in 73.3% (22/30) of CC and all NBD (30/30). Increased expression of calretinin and reduced expression of CK5/6 were more likely associated with CC than NBD (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). The sequential staining pattern of positive calretinin and negative CK5/6 in calretinin negative cases has a sensitivity of 69.57% and a specificity of 100% for differentiating CC from NBD. CK5/6 expression was also more likely associated with well-differentiated CC (7/7 versus 12/20 in moderately differentiated, and 9/10 in poorly differentiated, P = 0.019) and extrahepatic CC (10/10 versus 12/20 in intrahepatic, P = 0.029), but there was no association between the calretinin expression and the CC grade or location. CONCLUSION Calretinin and CK5/6 immunohistochemical stains may be useful for diagnosing a CC. Their immunohistochemical results should be interpreted with caution in the cases with differential diagnoses of mesothelioma and CC. A full mesothelioma panel, including WT1 and/or D2-40, is recommended to better define a mesothelial lineage. The biology of calretinin and CK5/6 expression in CC is unclear, but might shed light on identifying therapeutic targets for CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanjing Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA ; Departments of Pathology, University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro/Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Plainsboro, NJ, USA ; Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Renee Frank
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Emma E Furth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amy F Ziober
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Virginia A LiVolsi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paul J Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA ; Department of Pathology, 6 Founders, 3400 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Stevenson L, Allen WL, Proutski I, Stewart G, Johnston L, McCloskey K, Wilson PM, Longley DB, Johnston PG. Calbindin 2 (CALB2) regulates 5-fluorouracil sensitivity in colorectal cancer by modulating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. PLoS One 2011; 6:e20276. [PMID: 21629658 PMCID: PMC3101240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2010] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the calcium binding protein, Calbindin 2 (CALB2), in regulating the response of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) was investigated. Real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis revealed that CALB2 mRNA and protein expression were down-regulated in p53 wild-type and p53 null isogenic HCT116 CRC cell lines following 48 h and 72 h 5-FU treatment. Moreover, 5-FU-induced apoptosis was significantly reduced in HCT116 and LS174T CRC cell lines in which CALB2 expression had been silenced. Further investigation revealed that CALB2 translocated to the mitochondria following 5-FU treatment and that 5-FU-induced loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψ(m)) was abrogated in CALB2-silenced cells. Furthermore, CALB2 silencing decreased 5-FU-induced cytochrome c and smac release from the mitochondria and also decreased 5-FU-induced activation of caspases 9 and 3/7. Of note, co-silencing of XIAP overcame 5-FU resistance in CALB2-silenced cells. Collectively, these results suggest that following 5-FU treatment in CRC cell lines, CALB2 is involved in apoptosis induction through the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway. This indicates that CALB2 may be an important mediator of 5-FU-induced cell death. Moreover, down-regulation of CALB2 in response to 5-FU may represent an intrinsic mechanism of resistance to this anti-cancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Stevenson
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- * E-mail:
| | - Wendy L. Allen
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Irina Proutski
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Gail Stewart
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Louise Johnston
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Karen McCloskey
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Peter M. Wilson
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Daniel B. Longley
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Patrick G. Johnston
- Drug Resistance Group, Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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Pagni F, Ronchi S, Di Bella C. Aberrant calretinin and D2-40 expression in Krukenberg tumor (HER2/neu amplified). Int J Surg Pathol 2011; 19:188. [PMID: 21320859 DOI: 10.1177/1066896910395936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pagni
- Department of Pathology, Desio Hospital, University Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.
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Rekhi B, Pathuthara S, Ajit D, Kane SV. "Signet-ring" cells--a caveat in the diagnosis of a diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma occurring in a lady presenting with recurrent ascites: an unusual case report. Diagn Cytopathol 2010; 38:435-9. [PMID: 19937944 DOI: 10.1002/dc.21248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare tumor. Exfoliative cytology forms the first step in the diagnosis of mesothelioma, since most of these cases presented with effusion. Despite well established cytomorphological features, a challenge exists in differentiating mesothelial cells, including reactive and malignant types from carcinoma cells and macrophages. Presence of "signet-ring" cells increases the diagnostic challenge as these can be forms of benign and malignant cells. Ancillary techniques like immunohistochemical (IHC) markers and ultrastructural analysis form useful adjunct in substantiating exact diagnosis. We report an unusual case study of a diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma in a 57-years-old lady, with no history of asbestos exposure, presenting with recurrent ascites, diagnosed on ascitic fluid cytology and on histology as an adenocarcinoma, based upon the presence of "signet-ring" cells. On review, clinicopathological correlation with IHC was helpful in forming correct diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharat Rekhi
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India.
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Häner K, Henzi T, Pfefferli M, Künzli E, Salicio V, Schwaller B. A bipartite butyrate-responsive element in the human calretinin (CALB2) promoter acts as a repressor in colon carcinoma cells but not in mesothelioma cells. J Cell Biochem 2010; 109:519-31. [PMID: 19998412 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.22429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The short-chain fatty acid butyrate plays an essential role in colonic mucosa homeostasis through the capacity to block the cell cycle, regulate differentiation and to induce apoptosis. The beneficial effect of dietary fibers on preventing colon cancer is essentially mediated through butyrate, derived from luminal fermentation of fibers by intestinal bacteria. In epithelial cells of the colon, both in normal and colon cancer cells, the expression of several genes is positively or negatively regulated by butyrate likely through modulation of histone acetylation and thereby affecting the transcriptional activity of genes. Calretinin (CALB2) is a member of the EF-hand family of Ca(2+)-binding proteins and is expressed in a majority of poorly differentiated colon carcinoma and additionally in mesothelioma of the epithelioid and mixed type. Since CALB2 is one of the genes negatively regulated by butyrate in colon cancer cells and butyrate decreases calretinin protein expression levels in those cells, we investigated whether expression is regulated via putative butyrate-responsive elements (BRE) in the human CALB2 promoter. We identified two elements that act as butyrate-sensitive repressors in all colon cancer cell lines tested (CaCo-2, HT-29, Co-115/3). In contrast, in cells of mesothelial origin, MeT-5A and ZL34, the same two elements do not operate as butyrate-sensitive repressors and calretinin expression levels are insensitive to butyrate indicative of cell type-specific regulation of the CALB2 promoter. Calretinin expression in colon cancer cells is negatively regulated by butyrate via a bipartite BRE flanking the TATA box and this may be linked to butyrate's chemopreventive activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Häner
- Unit of Anatomy, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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14
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Winn B, Tavares R, Fanion J, Noble L, Gao J, Sabo E, Resnick MB. Differentiating the undifferentiated: immunohistochemical profile of medullary carcinoma of the colon with an emphasis on intestinal differentiation. Hum Pathol 2008; 40:398-404. [PMID: 18992917 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2008.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2008] [Revised: 08/19/2008] [Accepted: 08/26/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Undifferentiated or medullary carcinoma is characterized by its distinct histologic appearance and relatively better prognosis compared to poorly differentiated colonic carcinoma. These 2 entities may be difficult to differentiate by light microscopy alone. Only limited immunohistochemical studies investigating medullary carcinoma have been reported. These studies suggest a loss of intestinal differentiation, exemplified by a high percentage of CDX2 negativity. Our aim was to further characterize the immunohistochemical profile of medullary carcinoma, with particular emphasis on intestinal markers. Paraffin blocks from 16 cases of medullary carcinoma and 33 cases of poorly differentiated colonic carcinoma were retrieved, and tissue microarrays were constructed and stained with an immunohistochemical panel including CDX2, CK7, CK20, p53, intestinal trefoil factor 3, chromogranin, synaptophysin, MLH-1, MUC-1, MUC-2, and calretinin. A significantly higher proportion of medullary carcinomas, as opposed to poorly differentiated colonic carcinomas, showed loss of staining for MLH-1 and for the intestinal transcription factor CDX2, in accordance with previous studies. MLH-1 staining was present in only 21% of medullary carcinoma cases compared with 60% of the poorly differentiated colonic carcinoma cases (P = .02), whereas CDX2 was positive in 19% of medullary carcinomas and 55% of poorly differentiated colonic carcinomas (P = .03). Interestingly, calretinin staining was strongly positive in 73% of medullary carcinomas compared to only 12% of poorly differentiated colonic carcinomas (P < .0001). Evidence of intestinal differentiation by MUC-1, MUC-2, and TFF-3 staining was seen in 67%, 60%, and 53% of the medullary carcinomas, respectively. These 3 markers were frequently positive in many of the CDX2-negative medullary carcinoma cases. Medullary carcinoma of the colon retains a significant degree of intestinal differentiation as evidenced by its high percentage of staining for MUC-1, MUC-2, and TFF-3. Calretinin, MLH-1, and CDX2 may help to differentiate medullary carcinoma from poorly differentiated colonic carcinoma of the colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brody Winn
- Department of Pathology, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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15
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Calretinin expression in the differential diagnosis of human ameloblastoma and keratocystic odontogenic tumor. Am J Surg Pathol 2008; 32:256-60. [PMID: 18223328 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0b013e3181452176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ameloblastoma is a benign, locally aggressive epithelial odontogenic tumor that has the potential to become malignant and produce metastasis to distant sites such as lungs and kidneys. The histologic presentation can be, in some instances, mistaken for keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) (formerly known as odontogenic keratocyst). The expression of calretinin [calbindin2 (CALB2)] was investigated on both ameloblastoma and KCOT. Nineteen cases of ameloblastoma and 17 cases of KCOT were stained with calretinin antiserum 18-0211 (Zymed, San Francisco, CA). All cases (100%) of ameloblastoma showed positive calretinin staining, restricted to the neoplastic epithelial component and none (0%) of the 17 KCOTs showed positive calretinin staining. Gene expression profiling of ameloblastomas showed CALB2 expressed in the basal cell layer of columnar cells resembling preameloblasts, in all 5 of the ameloblastomas evaluated. Taken together, the results of this study strongly support calretinin as a useful immunohistochemical marker for ameloblastoma and malignant ameloblastoma and it can also be used in the differential diagnosis of KCOT.
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16
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Wick MR. Immunohistochemical approaches to the diagnosis of undifferentiated malignant tumors. Ann Diagn Pathol 2008; 12:72-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2007.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
Although well established as a marker of mesothelial cells, calretinin is also expressed in several other tissue types, including adipose tissue. Accordingly, immunohistochemical staining for calretinin has been described in an increasing number of neoplasms other than mesothelioma. A detailed analysis of calretinin expression in lipogenic tumors has not yet been reported, however. Given the known expression patterns of calretinin in normal tissues, we predicted that calretinin immunoreactivity would be detected in lipoma and the various histologic subtypes of liposarcoma, and that this marker might be of use in the differential diagnosis of selected fatty tumors. A variety of pleomorphic and small round cell sarcomas were studied for comparison. Calretinin immunoreactivity was detected, at least focally, in all 10 samples of normal adipose tissue and in 22 of 23 lipomas or lipoma variants. Staining for calretinin was also positive within the lipogenic component of 28 of 29 liposarcoma variants. Of the 7 dedifferentiated liposarcomas, 3 were focally positive for calretinin. Pleomorphic variants of other sarcomas, including undifferentiated high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor also exhibited focal calretinin immunoreactivity in a minority of cases, as did some small round cell sarcomas. These results suggest that calretinin immunoreactivity in normal and neoplastic adipose tissue is more ubiquitous than previously reported and may be a useful, albeit nonspecific marker of lipogenic differentiation. However, its utility in the differential diagnosis of fatty tumors appears limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin M M Cates
- Department of Pathology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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18
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Daly K, Shirazi-Beechey SP. Microarray analysis of butyrate regulated genes in colonic epithelial cells. DNA Cell Biol 2006; 25:49-62. [PMID: 16405400 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2006.25.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Butyrate is a naturally occurring product of colonic microbial fermentation of dietary carbohydrates that escape hydrolysis in the small intestine. Butyrate plays a significant role in the maintenance of colonic tissue homeostasis by regulating the expression of genes associated with the processes of proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Using microarray analysis, we assessed changes in the expression of 19,400 genes in response to butyrate in a human colonic epithelial cell line. Among these, we have identified 221 potentially butyrate- responsive genes specifically associated with the processes of proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Of these genes, 59 are upregulated and 162 downregulated, in accordance with the known modes of action of butyrate. The changes in the expression levels (up- or downregulation) of many of these genes were found to be opposite to that reported in colon cancer tissue, where the intracellular concentration of butyrate would be reduced due to the decline in expression of the colonic butyrate transporter, MCT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Daly
- Epithelial Function and Development Group, Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
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19
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Radi ZA, Miller DL. Immunohistochemical expression of calretinin in canine testicular tumours and normal canine testicular tissue. Res Vet Sci 2005; 79:125-9. [PMID: 15924929 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2004.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2004] [Revised: 11/11/2004] [Accepted: 11/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Calretinin is a calcium-binding protein expressed abundantly in the central and peripheral neural tissues. It has been demonstrated to be a valuable marker in human testicular neoplasia. The immunohistochemical expression of calretinin has been studied in 102 samples of normal (n=25) and three different neoplastic canine testicular tumours (n=77). In normal canine testis, calretinin expression was restricted to Leydig and Sertoli cells of the testis. In tumour tissues, calretinin expression was detected in all tumours investigated (interstitial cell tumours, seminoma, and Sertoli cell tumours), with a cytoplasmic and nuclear pattern of cellular distribution. The present work reports, for the first time, calretinin immunohistochemical expression in normal and neoplastic canine testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z A Radi
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, P.O. Box 1389, Tifton, GA 31794, USA
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20
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Llinares K, Escande F, Aubert S, Buisine MP, de Bolos C, Batra SK, Gosselin B, Aubert JP, Porchet N, Copin MC. Diagnostic value of MUC4 immunostaining in distinguishing epithelial mesothelioma and lung adenocarcinoma. Mod Pathol 2004; 17:150-7. [PMID: 14657954 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.3800027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The distinction between pleural malignant mesothelioma and pleural infiltration by adenocarcinomas has complex therapeutic and medicolegal implications. Although the panel of adenocarcinoma-associated antibodies and one or two mesothelioma markers is useful in this purpose, most of these antibodies are not totally specific. We determined the diagnostic value of MUC4 immunostaining in this issue. MUC4 gene expression was also studied by in situ hybridization and RT-PCR. MUC4 is a membrane-bound mucin that has been suggested to be implicated in malignant progression in humans and rats. The MUC4 gene is expressed in various normal epithelial tissues of endodermic origin and carcinomas. In the respiratory tract, MUC4 transcripts have been detected in normal respiratory epithelium and lung carcinomas. MUC4 protein was expressed in 32 of 35 (91.4%) lung adenocarcinomas on paraffin-embedded tissue. None of the 41 malignant mesotheliomas nor the 32 cases of benign mesothelial cells expressed MUC4 at the protein and mRNA levels. We conclude that MUC4 is a very specific (100%) and sensitive (91.4%) marker of lung adenocarcinomas on paraffin-embedded tissue that could be useful in diagnostic practice in the distinction between malignant mesothelioma and adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Llinares
- Unité INSERM U560 Laboratoire de Recherche Gérard Biserte, Place de Verdun, Lille, France
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21
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Lugli A, Forster Y, Haas P, Nocito A, Bucher C, Bissig H, Mirlacher M, Storz M, Mihatsch MJ, Sauter G. Calretinin expression in human normal and neoplastic tissues: a tissue microarray analysis on 5233 tissue samples. Hum Pathol 2003; 34:994-1000. [PMID: 14608532 DOI: 10.1053/s0046-8177(03)00339-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Calretinin is a calcium-binding protein expressed in different normal and neoplastic tissues. Early studies suggested that calretinin is a useful marker to differentiate adenocarcinomas from malignant mesotheliomas of the lung, but subsequent work has shown that calretinin can be expressed in several other tumor types. To systematically investigate the epidemiology of calretinin expression in normal and neoplastic tissues, we used tissue microarrays (TMAs) to analyze the immunohistochemically detectable expression of calretinin in 5233 tissue samples from 128 different tumor categories and 76 different normal tissue types. At least 1 case with weak expression could be found in 74 of 128 (58%) different tumor types and 46 entities (36%) had at least 1 tumor with strong positivity. In normal tissues, a particularly strong expression was found in Leydig cells of the testis, neurons of the brain, theca-lutein and theca interna cells of the ovary, and mesothelium. In tumors, strong calretinin expression was most frequently found in malignant mesotheliomas (6 of 7), Leydig cell tumors of the testis (5 of 5), adenomas of adrenal gland (5 of 9), and adenomatoid tumors (4 of 9). In summary, calretinin is frequently expressed in many different tumor types. Metastases of various different origins must be included in the differential diagnosis of calretinin-positive pleura tumors.
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22
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Miettinen M, Sarlomo-Rikala M. Expression of calretinin, thrombomodulin, keratin 5, and mesothelin in lung carcinomas of different types: an immunohistochemical analysis of 596 tumors in comparison with epithelioid mesotheliomas of the pleura. Am J Surg Pathol 2003; 27:150-8. [PMID: 12548160 DOI: 10.1097/00000478-200302000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Several immunohistochemical markers, among them calretinin, thrombomodulin (CD141), keratin 5, and mesothelin, have been documented or suggested as useful markers for positive identification of mesothelioma and to differentiate it from pulmonary adenocarcinoma; numerous studies have documented their variable specificity. However, expression of these markers in other types of lung carcinomas has not been systematically explored, although these tumors can enter in the differential diagnosis of mesothelioma. In this study we immunohistochemically evaluated 596 lung carcinomas of different types for the four above-mentioned mesothelioma markers, all of which reacted with a great majority of epithelioid mesotheliomas studied for comparison. Calretinin expression was common in giant cell carcinomas (67%), small cell carcinomas (49%), and large cell carcinomas (38%), whereas it was rare in usual adenocarcinomas but slightly more common in those with neuroendocrine differentiation (11% and 17%, respectively). Thrombomodulin was present in all keratinizing squamous carcinomas and the great majority (87%) of nonkeratinizing tumors in a membrane-staining pattern. It was moderately common in small cell (27%) and large cell carcinomas (25%) but relatively rare in adenocarcinomas (13%). Keratin 5 was expressed in all keratinizing and the great majority (87%) of nonkeratinizing squamous carcinomas, and a majority of large cell carcinomas (56%) and some small cell carcinomas (27%). It was rare in acinar adenocarcinomas (12%) and absent in those with neuroendocrine differentiation. Mesothelin was present in more than half (53%) of adenocarcinomas and a minority (13%) of large cell carcinomas but was absent in small cell carcinomas. In squamous carcinomas it was more often seen in nonkeratinizing versus keratinizing tumors (31% vs 16%). These results show that each of these "mesothelioma" markers reacts with different subsets of pulmonary carcinomas with a variable frequency; this should be considered when using these markers in the differential diagnosis of thoracic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markku Miettinen
- Department of Soft Tissue Pathology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, DC 20306-6000, USA.
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23
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Ulbright TM, Srigley JR, Hatzianastassiou DK, Young RH. Leydig cell tumors of the testis with unusual features: adipose differentiation, calcification with ossification, and spindle-shaped tumor cells. Am J Surg Pathol 2002; 26:1424-33. [PMID: 12409718 DOI: 10.1097/00000478-200211000-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We report 19 Leydig cell tumors (LCTs) of the testis with adipose differentiation (n = 12) and/or spindle cell growth (n = 8) in patients 28-70 years of age; three tumors with adipose differentiation showed psammomatous calcifications, two of which also had foci of ossification. In eight tumors fat-like cells apparently derived from lipid accumulation within neoplastic Leydig cells and appeared as focal to prominent clusters in a background of vacuolated, neoplastic Leydig cells. The fat-like cells were usually immunoreactive for Leydig cell markers (inhibin-alpha, calretinin, and melan-A) but were typically strongly positive for the adipose tissue marker, S-100 protein, supporting a hybrid cell phenotype. Four tumors had fat of stromal derivation. In two of these there were intermixed mature adipocytes, but in two others only lipoblastic cells were present. These four tumors lacked vacuolated, neoplastic Leydig cells, and the fat cells in the single case studied were negative for inhibin-alpha and melan-A but positive for S-100. Three of the 12 LCTs with adipose differentiation were clinically malignant, and each had several of the established malignant features. Eight tumors with spindle cells occurred in men 34-70 years of age. Two tumors had ill-defined fascicles of spindle cells, and three showed prominent edematous to myxoid areas with spindle-shaped tumor cells. Two additional tumors had a fibroma-like spindled component that blended with islands of more plump, polygonal to spindle-shaped Leydig cells. Finally, one tumor had foci resembling an unclassified sarcoma that merged with conventional LCT; the spindle cell component in this case did not react for Leydig cell markers in contrast to the spindle cells in five of the six other cases in which immunostains were performed. Spindle cell differentiation, by itself, did not appear to have prognostic significance. Of the six patients with available follow-up, two developed metastases, but their tumors had malignant features apart from spindle cells; the remaining four patients were disease free at a mean of 3.6 years. Awareness of these unusual patterns in LCTs may prevent misinterpretation of fat admixed with neoplastic Leydig cells as evidence of extratesticular growth (a criterion for malignant LCT) may help avoid misdiagnosis of a LCT as a testicular "tumor" of the adrenogenital syndrome (which may contain fat) and may prevent misdiagnosis of a LCT with spindle cells as a sarcoma or unclassified sex cord-stromal tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Ulbright
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202, USA.
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24
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Augusto D, Leteurtre E, De La Taille A, Gosselin B, Leroy X. Calretinin: a valuable marker of normal and neoplastic Leydig cells of the testis. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2002; 10:159-62. [PMID: 12051635 DOI: 10.1097/00129039-200206000-00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Sex cord-stromal tumors represent approximately 4% of all testicular neoplasms. Leydig cell tumor (LCT) is the most common entity, followed by Sertoli cell tumor (SCT). Leydig cell tumor histologic diagnosis is usually easy, but occasional forms of LCT could mimic others neoplasms, especially SCT or variants of yolk sac tumor. The aim of this study was to investigate calretinin expression in LCT and SCT of the testis. We evaluated calretinin reactivity in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of 10 LCT, three SCT, five Leydig cell hyperplasia, two Sertoli cell adenomas, eight seminomatous tumors, five nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (mixed tumor), one adenomatoid tumor, and two normal testes using a standard immunohistochemical technique with a microwave-mediated epitope retrieval. All cases of LCT showed a positive staining that was diffuse and intense, constantly cytoplasmic, and sometimes nuclear. A positive strong and diffuse cytoplasmic and sometimes nuclear staining was also observed in Leydig cell hyperplasia and in normal Leydig cells. No staining was seen in two of three cases of SCT, and focal staining was observed in the third case. Only rare scattered cells were weakly immunostained in the Sertoli cell nodules. Seminomatous and nonseminomatous germ cell tumors were negative. Calretinin is an interesting marker of normal and neoplastic Leydig cells of the testis and may be of value in the diagnosis of atypical LCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Augusto
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals, Lille, France
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25
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Jorda M, De MB, Nadji M. Calretinin and inhibin are useful in separating adrenocortical neoplasms from pheochromocytomas. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2002; 10:67-70. [PMID: 11893039 DOI: 10.1097/00129039-200203000-00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Most adrenocortical neoplasms and pheochromocytomas can be diagnosed by a combination of clinical findings and morphologic features. Occasionally, however, this histologic differential diagnosis requires ancillary tests, such as immunohistochemistry. Both tumors are generally negative for epithelial markers but express synaptophysin. Inhibin and chromogranin are used for the diagnosis of adrenocortical neoplasms and pheochromocytomas, respectively. Both antigens, however, are expressed focally and may be completely negative, particularly in small biopsies. The authors investigated the potential value of adding calretinin to inhibin in the differential diagnosis of these tumors. Fifty-five primary adrenal neoplasms including 33 adrenocortical tumors (21 adenomas and 12 carcinomas), 22 pheochromocytomas, and 7 healthy adrenal glands were examined immunohistochemically for the expression of calretinin and inhibin. Inhibin was demonstrated in 24 (73%) adrenocortical neoplasms. When calretinin was added, the number of tumors staining positively for the two markers alone or in combination increased to 31 (94%). Both antigens showed a focal pattern of distribution in many cases. None of the pheochromocytomas reacted for any of these two markers. Healthy adrenal gland showed a distinct positive and negative pattern of immunoreactivity for both antigens in cortex and medulla, respectively. There were no differences between staining patterns of calretinin and inhibin in healthy adrenal cortex, adrenocortical adenomas, and adrenocortical carcinomas. The authors conclude that the addition of calretinin to inhibin increases the sensitivity of the diagnosis of adrenocortical neoplasms. When used together, they are highly specific and sensitive for the differential diagnosis of these tumors from pheochromocytomas. These markers, however, do not distinguish between benign and malignant adrenocortical neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merce Jorda
- Department of Pathology, University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, Florida 33136, USA.
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26
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Zimmermann L, Schwaller B. Monoclonal antibodies recognizing epitopes of calretinins: dependence on Ca2+-binding status and differences in antigen accessibility in colon cancer cells. Cell Calcium 2002; 31:13-25. [PMID: 11990296 DOI: 10.1054/ceca.2001.0255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies are very helpful tools to investigate the localization and sometimes even the function of specific proteins in cells and tissues. By generating monoclonal antibodies against calretinin-22k (CR-22k), a C-terminally truncated isoform of calretinin (CR) as a result of alternative splicing of the CR mRNA, we envisaged that screening multiple monoclonal antibodies would allow the identification of CR-22k as well as CR. Both proteins share the first 178 amino acids, but have different C-termini. All three antibodies 10C10, 6B3 and 2H4 recognize recombinant CR-22k and the specificity to also recognize CR was demonstrated in brain extracts of different species and human tumour cells, which express CR. All monoclonal antibodies did not crossreact with the closely related protein calbindin D-28k. Antibody binding was depending on the Ca2+-binding status of both forms of calretinin. Generally, the Ca2+-bound form was better recognized than the Ca2+-free form. Carboxy- and amino-terminally truncated CR proteins were expressed in E. coli in order to characterize the epitopes recognized by the three antibodies. Additionally, tryptic and cyanogen bromide fragments were produced to further narrow down the sequences recognized by the three antibodies. 10C10 recognizes an epitope consisting of the linker region between EF-hand domains I and II and the N-terminal part of EF-hand II, while the others (6B3, 2H4) bind to a region including the linker between EF-hand domains III and IV. These antibodies are valuable tools to further investigate the distribution and eventually the specific function of these two proteins in the nervous tissue and under pathological conditions, e.g. in colon tumours and mesotheliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Zimmermann
- Institute of Histology and General Embryology, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
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Cao QJ, Jones JG, Li M. Expression of calretinin in human ovary, testis, and ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2001; 20:346-52. [PMID: 11603218 DOI: 10.1097/00004347-200110000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Calretinin, a calcium-binding protein, is primarily expressed in certain subtypes of neurons. It has also been found to be present in mesothelial cells and mesotheliomas but not in many types of carcinomas. Using a polyclonal anti-calretinin antibody, we investigated the expression of calretinin immunohistochemically in nonneoplastic human ovaries and testes and ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors (SCSTs). In ovaries, calretinin was expressed in theca interna cells, hilus cells, and scattered individual stromal cells. Oocytes, granulosa cells, theca externa cells, rete ovarii, and most stromal cells were negative. Expression of calretinin was also seen in the ovarian surface epithelium and in collapsed and flat epithelial inclusion glands (EIGs), but not in round, columnar, and ciliated EIGs. In some glands, a transition from calretinin-positive to calretinin-negative epithelium was observed. In postpubertal testes, calretinin was expressed in Leydig cells, but not in germ cells or most rete testes and Sertoli cells. In ovarian SCSTs, strong calretinin staining was seen in all hilus cell tumors (4/4) and the Leydig cell component of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (10/10). The Sertoli cell component showed focal weak positivity in 5/10. Fibrothecomas were completely negative (0/8). In granulosa cell tumors, the tumor cells were either completely negative (8/14) or weakly positive at the periphery of the tumor (6/14) while scattered stromal cell staining was seen in 9/14 cases. The expression of calretinin in normal Leydig cells, theca interna cells, the Leydig cell component of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, and hilus cell tumors suggests its functional relationship with androgen production. Its pattern of expression in ovarian SCSTs is useful in the differential diagnosis of these tumors. The presence of a transition from calretinin-positive, flat, nonciliated epithelium to calretinin-negative, columnar, ciliated epithelium in the same glands provides strong evidence for mullerian metaplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q J Cao
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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Marilley D, Vonlanthen S, Gioria A, Schwaller B. Calretinin and calretinin-22k increase resistance toward sodium butyrate-induced differentiation in CaCo-2 colon adenocarcinoma cells. Exp Cell Res 2001; 268:93-103. [PMID: 11461122 DOI: 10.1006/excr.2001.5261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Calretinin (CR) and the alternatively spliced form calretinin-22k (CR-22k) are members of the EF-hand family of Ca(2+)-binding proteins (CaBPs). CR is expressed in more than 60% of poorly differentiated human colon tumors and both isoforms are present in several colon carcinoma cell lines (e.g., WiDr). They are absent in normal enterocytes and in well-differentiated adenocarcinoma cell lines such as CaCo-2. Calretinins are thought to act as Ca(2+) buffers and to be involved in the regulation of Ca(2+)-dependent processes. Down-regulation of calretinins in WiDr cells by antisense oligonucleotides leads to growth inhibition and treatment with sodium butyrate (NaBt, an inducer of differentiation) leads to a blockage of the cell cycle and, in parallel, to down-regulation of CR. It has been proposed that CR and/or CR-22k may be involved in maintaining the undifferentiated phenotype of WiDr cells and contributing to the transformation of enterocytes. Expression levels and distribution of CR-22k were investigated in WiDr cells. CR-22k was down-regulated in NaBt-treated cells and the normally cytoplasmic protein was preferentially localized in the nucleus either as a result of translocation or selective nuclear maintenance, a process more pronounced than in the case of CR. To compare functional differences of calretinins, CR-negative Caco-2 cells were stably transfected with cDNAs encoding CR or CR-22k. Cell growth of CR-transfected cells was increased, an effect that was not observed in CR-22k-transfected ones. The CR-expressing clones were almost completely resistant to treatment with 0.5 mM NaBt, a concentration significantly reducing cell growth in control cells. The same effect was obtained in the CR-22k-expressing clones, although to a lesser extent. This implicates that expression of CR and/or CR-22k in colon tumor cells may contribute to tumorigenesis by blocking differentiation-promoting signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Marilley
- Institute of Histology and General Embryology, Pérolles, CH-1705, Fribourg, Switzerland
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Miettinen M, Limon J, Niezabitowski A, Lasota J. Calretinin and other mesothelioma markers in synovial sarcoma: analysis of antigenic similarities and differences with malignant mesothelioma. Am J Surg Pathol 2001; 25:610-7. [PMID: 11342772 DOI: 10.1097/00000478-200105000-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a mesenchymal neoplasm that typically shows epithelial differentiation. SS commonly metastasizes to lung and pleura, and has also been reported as the primary in these locations. The histologic distinction of SS from mesothelioma may be difficult because of the combination of epithelioid and spindle cells, potentially shared locations, and antigenic expression. In this study the authors examined 103 well-documented SSs including 41 biphasic, 44 monophasic, and 18 poorly differentiated SSs in comparison with 23 epithelioid and seven sarcomatous mesotheliomas. Most biphasic SSs (29 of 41, 71%) had fields or foci of calretinin-positive tumor cells. The spindle cell components were more often positive (55%), whereas 14% of tumors had positive epithelial cells. The monophasic and poorly differentiated SSs commonly had foci of calretinin-positive cells (in 52% and 56% of cases respectively). In comparison, all 23 epithelioid mesotheliomas (EM) were extensively calretinin positive and seven sarcomatoid mesotheliomas were variably calretinin positive. HBME-1 positivity was similarly detected in biphasic SS and EM (100% and 87% respectively). Among the other sarcomas, two of 15 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors were focally calretinin positive, whereas 16 epithelioid sarcomas, 20 leiomyosarcomas, 20 gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and 20 angiosarcomas were negative. Biphasic SSs differed from mesotheliomas by their more common BerEp4 positivity (90%) whereas EMs showed focal reactivity in 13% cases. Marked CD15 reactivity was rare in both. Wilms tumor protein-1 (WT1) was not detected in SS, but was present in 12 of 17 EMs. CD141 was rare in SS, limited to spindle cell components, whereas EMs typically showed prominent membrane staining in epithelial cells. Simple epithelial keratins were present in all epithelial cells of biphasic SS and mesothelioma (keratin 7[K7], K19), but were only focal in monophasic and poorly differentiated SS. Biphasic SSs were extensively K14 positive (89% of cases), whereas epithelial and sarcomatoid mesotheliomas typically showed only scattered positive cells. The potentially shared calretinin patterns in SS and mesothelioma require the use of other markers. The discriminating features include extensive BerEp4 positivity, rarity of CD141, and lack of WT1 in SS. Global expression of K7 and K19 in mesotheliomas versus focal expression in monophasic and poorly differentiated SSs, and differential patterns of K14 expression may also be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Miettinen
- Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Department of Soft Tissue Pathology, Washington, DC 20306-6000, USA
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Terracciano LM, Mhawech P, Suess K, D'Armiento M, Lehmann FS, Jundt G, Moch H, Sauter G, Mihatsch MJ. Calretinin as a marker for cardiac myxoma. Diagnostic and histogenetic considerations. Am J Clin Pathol 2000; 114:754-9. [PMID: 11068550 DOI: 10.1309/nr6g-t872-f090-lbrw] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
To study the usefulness of calretinin as an immunohistochemistry marker in the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma (CM) and the origin of myxoma cells, we examined 24 CMs and 9 fetal hearts with immunohistochemical methods on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. We compared 24 CMs with 10 mural thrombi, 6 jaw myxomas, and 2 papillary fibroelastomas. Calretinin expression was identified in 100% of CMs and was negative in all cases of mural thrombi, jaw myxoma, and papillary fibroelastoma. Calretinin expression by the neoplastic cells in CM was strong and diffuse and had a cytoplasmic and a nuclear pattern. Calretinin expression in fetal hearts was found in autonomic ganglia cells in the subepicardial tissue of the atria and atrial appendages, along the interatrial and atrioventricular sulci, and in the atrial septum. Results clearly indicate that calretinin can be used as a marker for the diagnosis of CM and that it is a powerful tool for the differential diagnosis, most importantly with mural myxoid thrombi. Furthermore, the positive expression of calretinin by the autonomic neurons in the fetal heart and CM supports the concept that myxoma cells may originate from endocardial sensory nerve tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Terracciano
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital of Basel, Switzerland
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Stulík J, Osterreicher J, Koupilová K, Knízek J, Bures J, Jandík P, Langr F, Dedic K, Schäfer BW, Heizmann CW. Differential expression of the Ca2+ binding S100A6 protein in normal, preneoplastic and neoplastic colon mucosa. Eur J Cancer 2000; 36:1050-9. [PMID: 10885611 DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(00)00043-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The expression of calcium-binding protein S100A6 was investigated in normal colon tissue, in colon adenomas and in colorectal carcinomas. Using an immunoblotting approach we detected four S100A6 variants with Mwt of 10 kDa and pI of 5.05 (isoform I), 5.15 (isoform II), 5.23 (isoform III) and 5.32 (isoform IV) that were differentially expressed in the analysed samples. The quantitative examination of S100A6 variant expression in 25 pairs of colorectal carcinoma and matched control mucosa proved a statistically significant increased abundance of S100A6 isoforms I (P = 0.004) and III (P = 0.025) in malignant tissue, and conversely, an increased level of S100A6 isoform IV in healthy tissue (P = 0.022). The expression of isoforms I and III and the loss of isoform IV were also observed in colon cancer cell lines. In addition, the immunohistochemical study of 16 primary colorectal carcinomas revealed both in the non-paired Student t-test and in the Mann Whitney test the statistically significant accumulation of S100A6 protein (P < 0.001) in the invasive margin of the tumour. The immunohistochemical analysis of S100A6 protein in polyps differing in clinical severity gave a strong staining that was maximal in dysplastic lesions. Thus, our results indicate a possible, statistically significant correlation (non-paired Student t-test P = 0.036) between S100A6 expression and colon carcinoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Stulík
- Institute of Radiobiology and Immunology, Purkyne Military Medical Academy, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.
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Cury PM, Butcher DN, Fisher C, Corrin B, Nicholson AG. Value of the mesothelium-associated antibodies thrombomodulin, cytokeratin 5/6, calretinin, and CD44H in distinguishing epithelioid pleural mesothelioma from adenocarcinoma metastatic to the pleura. Mod Pathol 2000; 13:107-12. [PMID: 10697265 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.3880018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Until recently, the standard approach of most laboratories in distinguishing epithelioid pleural mesothelioma from metastatic adenocarcinoma has been a negative result from a panel of adenocarcinoma-associated antibodies. However, several "mesothelium-associated" antibodies have been proposed as useful in this situation, and we have applied four of these putative mesothelioma markers--thrombomodulin, cytokeratin 5/6, calretinin, and CD44H--to a series of 61 epithelioid pleural mesotheliomas and 63 metastatic adenocarcinomas with known primary sites (lung = 19; breast = 21; ovary = 6; colon = 10; kidney = 4; uterus, epididymis, pancreas = 1 case each). Of the mesotheliomas, 55 of 61 (90%) stained for thrombomodulin, 56 of 61 (92%) for cytokeratin 5/6, 47 of 51 cases (92%) were positive for calretinin, and 39 of 43 (91%) were positive for CD44H. Of the metastatic adenocarcinomas, 12 of 63 (19%) cases were positive for thrombomodulin, 9 of 63 (14%) were positive for CK5/6, and 27 of 60 (45%) were positive for CD44H. With calretinin, only 1 case of 59 (2%) showed positive nuclear staining. All four antibodies stained reactive mesothelium; thrombomodulin also stained endothelium; and CD44H variably stained lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts. We conclude that all four antibodies show high sensitivity for epithelioid mesothelioma, but only calretinin (98%), cytokeratin 5/6 (86%), and thrombomodulin (81%) show sufficient specificity for practical use in this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Cury
- Department of Histopathology, Heart Institute, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil
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