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Quantitation of Protein Expression and Co-localization Using Multiplexed Immuno-histochemical Staining and Multispectral Imaging
Published on: April 8, 2016
Androgen receptor expression patterns in Becker's nevi: an immunohistochemical study
Hege Grande Sarpa1, Ronald Harris, C David Hansen
1Department of Dermatology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA. Hege.Sarpa@hsc.utah.edu
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|January 3, 2009
Summary
Androgen receptors (ARs) are elevated in the dermal fibroblasts of Becker's nevus (BN) lesions. This finding in both males and females suggests ARs may play a role in BN development and aid in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Histopathology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Becker's nevus (BN) is a common hyperpigmented skin condition.
- Previous research suggests a link between increased androgen receptors (ARs) and BN, particularly in individuals with associated physical abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and expression levels of ARs in female patients with BN.
- To compare AR expression in BN lesions between males and females, and with normal skin.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical staining using an AR antibody was performed on biopsy specimens.
- Specimens included Becker's nevi from 3 women and 3 men, and normal skin from the 3 women.
- Expression levels of ARs in cutaneous structures were quantified.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in AR expression was observed in the dermal fibroblasts of Becker's nevus lesions compared to normal skin.
- This finding was consistent across both male and female subjects.
Conclusions:
- Increased androgen receptor expression in dermal fibroblasts is a characteristic feature of Becker's nevus.
- Immunohistochemical analysis of ARs may serve as a diagnostic aid for Becker's nevus biopsies.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm these findings.
