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EGF receptor amplification and expression in human brain tumours
M Chaffanet1, C Chauvin, M Lainé
1Inserm U. 318 Neurobiophysique, Université J. Fourier, Grenoble, France.
European Journal of Cancer (Oxford, England : 1990)
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) gene amplification and overexpression occurred in malignant gliomas but not meningiomas. Deregulation of EGFr production may involve multiple levels beyond gene amplification.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) plays a crucial role in cell growth and is implicated in various cancers.
- Understanding EGFr alterations in nervous system tumors is vital for targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the amplification, rearrangement, and expression of the EGFr gene in human brain tumors.
- To correlate EGFr alterations with specific tumor types and receptor protein levels.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of EGFr gene amplification in 46 brain tumors.
- Northern blot analysis for gene expression in 37 tumors.
- Assessment of EGFr protein binding to EGF in 27 tumors.
Main Results:
- EGFr gene amplification and overexpression were observed in 53% of malignant gliomas, often concurrently.
- These alterations were absent in meningiomas.
- In high-grade gliomas, amplification correlated with high receptor levels, but some gliomas showed high receptors without amplification.
Conclusions:
- EGFr gene amplification and overexpression are characteristic of malignant gliomas.
- Tumorigenesis in the nervous system may involve complex deregulation of EGFr production at multiple levels, including translational and post-translational.
- Findings suggest potential therapeutic targets in EGFr pathways for specific brain tumors.