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TROP-2 Is Not a Therapeutic Target in Melanoma: a Morphological Study
Sonia Fantone1, Daniela Marzioni2, Elisa Molinelli3
1Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, 60124, Ancona, Italy.
Dermatology and Therapy
|March 7, 2026
Summary
Trophoblast surface antigen-2 (TROP-2) is not expressed in melanomas, indicating it is not a viable therapeutic target for this skin cancer. Further research is needed to identify effective melanoma treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cutaneous malignant melanoma is a deadly skin cancer with high rates of progression and recurrence.
- Trophoblast surface antigen-2 (TROP-2) is a protein involved in cell adhesion and a target for antibody-drug conjugates in other cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Trophoblast surface antigen-2 (TROP-2) expression in melanomas.
- To determine if TROP-2 could be a potential therapeutic target for melanoma.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy were used to analyze TROP-2 protein expression.
- Fifty primary melanomas and ten melanocytic nevi were examined.
Main Results:
- TROP-2 was detected on the cell membranes of epidermal melanocytes and keratinocytes.
- Melanocytic nevi and melanoma tissues showed no detectable TROP-2 expression at any stage.
Conclusions:
- Trophoblast surface antigen-2 (TROP-2) is not expressed in melanoma tissues.
- TROP-2 cannot be considered a therapeutic target for melanoma based on these findings.
