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Expression of c-kit and platelet-derived growth factor receptors in ovarian granulosa cell tumors

Rodney P Rocconi1, Kellie S Matthews, Kristopher J Kimball

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, Alabama 36607, USA. rocconi@usouthal.edu

Reproductive Sciences (Thousand Oaks, Calif.)
|May 22, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFR-alpha and PDGFR-beta) are highly expressed in ovarian granulosa cell tumors (GCTs). This suggests imatinib mesylate may be a potential targeted therapy for GCTs.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Gynecologic Pathology

Background:

  • Ovarian granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) are rare neoplasms.
  • Understanding the molecular targets within GCTs is crucial for developing targeted therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the expression of tyrosine kinase receptors c-kit, platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha (PDGFR-alpha), and PDGFR-beta in ovarian GCTs.
  • To assess the potential of targeting these receptors with imatinib mesylate.

Main Methods:

  • Immunohistochemical staining was performed on 21 primary ovarian GCT specimens.
  • Expression levels of c-kit, PDGFR-alpha, and PDGFR-beta were analyzed using a semiquantitative scoring method.
  • Normal ovarian tissue served as internal controls.

Main Results:

  • C-kit expression was observed in only 2 out of 21 GCT specimens.
  • PDGFR-alpha and PDGFR-beta were expressed in 100% of GCT specimens with strong intensity.
  • No staining for c-kit, PDGFR-alpha, or PDGFR-beta was detected in normal ovarian tissues.

Conclusions:

  • Significant expression of PDGFR targets was found in GCTs, contrasting with normal ovarian tissues.
  • The high expression of PDGFRs in GCTs supports further investigation into imatinib mesylate as a targeted therapeutic agent.

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