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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
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Optimization of a Multiplex RNA-based Expression Assay Using Breast Cancer Archival Material
Published on: August 1, 2018
COX-2 expression does not correlate with microvessel density in breast cancer
Mangesh A Thorat1, Sanjana Mehrotra, Akira Morimiya
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA.
Summary
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression does not correlate with angiogenesis in breast cancer. This suggests that other genes, not solely COX-2, may drive tumor angiogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is linked to cancer progression, potentially by promoting angiogenesis.
- The precise mechanism and clinical evidence for COX-2's role in breast cancer angiogenesis are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between COX-2 expression and microvessel density (MVD) in breast cancer tissues.
- To determine if COX-2 expression correlates with other prognostic factors in breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze COX-2 expression in 89 breast cancer samples.
- Microvessel density (MVD) was assessed using CD31 immunohistochemistry and the Chalkey count method.
- Statistical analysis correlated COX-2 expression and MVD with prognostic factors.
Main Results:
- COX-2 expression was found in 79% of cases and correlated with tumor type and grade, but inversely with estrogen receptor status.
- Microvessel density (MVD) correlated positively with tumor grade and size, and negatively with progesterone receptor status.
- Crucially, no significant correlation was found between COX-2 expression and MVD (p = 0.702).
Conclusions:
- COX-2 expression is not directly correlated with angiogenesis in breast cancer.
- Breast cancer angiogenesis likely involves multiple genetic factors beyond COX-2.
