Epidermal growth factor receptor expression in canine transitional cell carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Oncology
• Molecular Pathology
• Canine Cancer Research

Background:

• Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is a common and often fatal urinary bladder tumor in dogs.
• Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpression is linked to human bladder cancer, but its role in canine TCC is unestablished.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate EGFR protein and mRNA expression in canine normal bladder, polypoid cystitis, and TCC.
• To determine if EGFR expression can serve as a diagnostic marker for canine TCC.

Main Methods:

• Immunohistochemistry was used to assess EGFR protein expression.
• Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to quantify EGFR mRNA levels.
• Samples included normal bladder (n=5), polypoid cystitis (n=5), and TCC (n=25).

Main Results:

• EGFR protein expression was significantly higher in TCC compared to normal bladder (P<0.001) and polypoid cystitis (P<0.005).
• High EGFR protein expression showed a significant association with TCC (P<0.01), with 72% sensitivity and 100% specificity.
• A strong positive correlation (r=0.88, P<0.05) was observed between EGFR mRNA and protein levels in TCC.

Conclusions:

• Intense EGFR protein expression is significantly elevated in canine TCC.
• EGFR protein expression shows potential as a valuable diagnostic marker for canine TCC.
• The correlation between mRNA and protein expression supports EGFR's role in canine TCC pathogenesis.