Immunohistochemical Expression and Prognostic Value of COX-2 and Alpha-Smooth Muscle Actin-positive Cancer-associated Fibroblasts in Feline Mammary Cancer

Jaynne C M Guimarães ¹, Gonçalo Petrucci ^2,3, Justina Prada ^1,4

⁰Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.

In Vivo (Athens, Greece) +

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February 28, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are linked to worse outcomes in feline mammary cancer. These markers indicate a poorer prognosis for cats with this disease.

Area Of Science

Veterinary Oncology
Cancer Biology
Immunohistochemistry

Background

Cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are implicated in tumor progression in various species.
Their specific roles in feline mammary carcinogenesis remain unexplored.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the clinicopathological significance of COX-2 and α-SMA-positive CAFs in feline malignant mammary tumors.
To correlate these markers with survival outcomes in affected felines.

Main Methods

Immunoexpression of COX-2 and α-SMA-positive CAFs analyzed in 50 feline mammary tumors.
Clinicopathological features and survival data were correlated with marker presence.

Main Results

COX-2 overexpression correlated with higher mitotic index, malignancy grade, lymph node and distant metastasis, and recurrence.
α-SMA-positive CAFs were associated with increased mitotic index, metastasis, and recurrence.
Both COX-2 and α-SMA-positive CAFs independently predicted poor disease-free and overall survival.

Conclusions

COX-2 and α-SMA-positive CAFs are associated with mammary cancer development and worse prognosis in felines.
α-SMA-positive CAFs play a significant role in feline mammary tumorigenesis and clinical outcome.

Keywords:

CAFs COX-2 Feline mammary tumors prognosis α-SMA α-SMA-positive CAFs