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Androgen receptors in meningiomas
J J Olson1, D W Beck, J W MacIndoe
1Department of Surgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City 52242.
Cancer
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Meningiomas possess androgen-binding protein, but androgens showed minimal impact on tumor growth in vitro. This suggests androgens play a lesser role than other hormones in meningioma development.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Meningiomas are hypothesized to be hormonally sensitive.
- Epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory data support hormonal influence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and role of androgen-binding protein in meningiomas.
- To assess the in vitro effect of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on meningioma growth.
Main Methods:
- Eight meningiomas were assayed for androgen-binding protein.
- Three tumors underwent in vitro growth studies with varying DHT concentrations.
Main Results:
- Androgen-binding protein was detected in all eight meningiomas.
- In vitro, DHT showed a small, statistically significant growth effect (9-11%) in two of three tumors.
- The response was not consistently dose-related or proportional to receptor quantity.
Conclusions:
- The binding protein identified likely functions as an androgen receptor.
- Androgens appear to play a minor role in meningioma growth compared to progesterone or estrogen.