Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026
Identifying, Diagnosing, and Grading Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors in Genetically Engineered Mouse Models
Published on: May 17, 2024
Expression profiles in malignant fibrous histiocytomas: clues for differentiating 'spindle cell' and 'pleomorphic'
Martina Scapolan1, Tiziana Perin, Bruna Wassermann
1Experimental Oncology 2, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico, IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Via Franco Gallini 2, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy.
Abstract:
We analysed 21 samples of malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) distinguished into the two principal morphological categories ('spindle cell' and the 'pleomorphic' subtypes). The aim of our study was to verify if a distinction between the two subclasses of MFH in terms of expression/activation of protein profiles could support and extend the morphological criteria. For this purpose, we carried out an immunohistochemical and immunoblotting analysis of proteins that could be relevant in sarcoma biology and potential diagnostic and therapeutical targets such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and molecules related to adhesive and proliferative properties. Our analysis revealed that MMP-1, MMP-9 expression and p27(kip1) cytoplasmic localisation can be considered valid parameters in the classification and potential explanation of the aggressive behaviour of this non-homogeneous group of MFH.
