Histochemical observations of lectin-binding in experimental carcinomas in mouse submandibular glands

Peroxidase-conjugated lectins were used for the histochemical detection of carbohydrates in experimental carcinomas of mouse submandibular glands. Induced carcinomas, 43 lesions from 25 cases, were examined histochemically with galactose-binding lectins (PNA and RCA-1), N-acetyl-galactosamine-binding lectins (DBA and SBA), a fucose-binding lectin (UEA-1), and a N-acetyl-glucosamine-binding lectin (WGA). In non- or slightly keratinized squamous-cell carcinomas, the lectin binding of PNA, RCA-1, DBA, SBA, and WGA was weak in tumor epithelia, and UEA-1 binding was slight. In highly keratinized squamous-cell carcinomas, lectin binding was increased in tumor epithelia, but no reaction was noted in completely keratinized regions. Desquamated materials in lumens of tumors gave an intense stain with lectins. Stromal connective tissue, including collagen fibers and basement membranes stained intensely. Lectin binding to submandibular carcinomas was different from binding to granular convoluted tubules and the striated ducts of the normal submandibular gland.