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Protein expression patterns associated with advanced stage ovarian cancer
Laura Cortesi1, Elena Rossi, Lara Della Casa
1Department of Oncology & Haematology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
Electrophoresis
|July 6, 2011
Summary
This study identified calgranulin as a potential ovarian cancer biomarker, showing significant overexpression in tumor tissues and effusions. Other proteins like galectin 3 were downregulated, offering diagnostic and prognostic insights.
Area of Science:
- Proteomics
- Biomarker Discovery
- Ovarian Cancer Research
Background:
- Ovarian cancer diagnosis and prognosis remain challenging.
- Identifying reliable biomarkers is crucial for early detection and effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel diagnostic and prognostic protein biomarkers for ovarian cancer.
- To compare protein expression profiles in healthy and cancerous ovarian tissues and fluids.
Main Methods:
- Comparative proteomic analysis using 2-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry (MS).
- Analysis of healthy tissue, tumor tissue, interstitial fluid, and peritoneal effusion.
- Immunohistochemistry for validating calgranulin (S100A8) overexpression.
Main Results:
- Six proteins exhibited differential expression: five downregulated (galectin 3, GSTA2, RBP1, PEBP, ANXA5) and one upregulated.
- Calgranulin (S100A8) showed significant overexpression in all pathological samples, including ascitic fluid.
- Reduced expression of galectin 3 and retinol binding protein 1 confirmed in early-stage disease.
Conclusions:
- Calgranulin (S100A8) overexpression suggests its potential as a diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarker for ovarian cancer.
- Altered protein expression impacts cell-cycle progression, apoptosis, and signal transduction pathways.
- This study is the first to report calgranulin overexpression using 2-DE and MS/MS on surgical biopsies.
