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Androgen receptor in pituitary adenomas of the gonadotroph cell complex
W Saeger1, S Schreiber, D K Lüdecke
1Institute of Pathology, Marienkrankenhaus Hamburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Although androgen receptors have been identified in normal gonadotroph and somatotroph cells of the pituitary, immunohistochemical studies have failed to reveal these receptors in pituitary adenomas so far. Using a monoclonal antibody to androgen receptor in our series of 60 adenomas of the gonadotroph cell complex (20 FSH/LH cell adenomas, 20 null cell adenomas, 20 oncocytic adenomas), only one null cell adenoma showed strong nuclear immunostaining. All the other antibodies were completely negative. The significance of this finding in correlation with clinical data is still unclear, although it may be associated with more rapid tumor growth. In paraadenomous tissue, some normal gonadotrophs expressed the androgen receptor.
Insights
Androgen receptors are typically absent in pituitary adenomas, with only one null cell adenoma showing expression. This finding in pituitary tumors may suggest faster growth, though further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Androgen receptors (ARs) are present in normal pituitary cells like gonadotrophs and somatotrophs.
- Previous immunohistochemical studies have not detected ARs in pituitary adenomas.
- Pituitary adenomas are common tumors affecting hormone production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and significance of androgen receptors in various types of pituitary adenomas.
- To determine if AR expression in pituitary adenomas correlates with specific tumor types or clinical behavior.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a monoclonal antibody specific for androgen receptors.
- Examined 60 pituitary adenomas, including 20 FSH/LH cell adenomas, 20 null cell adenomas, and 20 oncocytic adenomas.
- Performed immunohistochemical staining on tumor tissues and adjacent normal pituitary tissue.
Main Results:
- Androgen receptor expression was detected in only one out of 60 pituitary adenomas (a null cell adenoma).
- The detected AR staining was strong and localized to the nucleus in the positive null cell adenoma.
- Normal gonadotrophs in the paraadenomatous tissue showed positive androgen receptor staining.
Conclusions:
- Androgen receptors are largely absent in pituitary adenomas, contrasting with their presence in normal pituitary gonadotrophs.
- The rare detection of AR in a null cell adenoma warrants further investigation into its potential role in tumor growth.
- The clinical significance of AR expression in pituitary adenomas remains to be elucidated.