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Abnormal expression of epiligrin and alpha 6 beta 4 integrin in basal cell carcinoma
1Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinic, Minneapolis, USA.
Background:
Basal cell carcinoma is characterized by local invasion, and only rarely metastasizes. The role of the containing basement membrane (BM) in this tumor is unclear. Several BM components have been shown to be absent or significantly reduced in BM surrounding infiltrating tumor.
Objective:
The purpose of this study is to examine the expression of epiligrin, a BM-associated glycoprotein, and the integrin chains alpha 3, alpha 6, beta 1, and beta 4 in the basement membranes surrounding basal cell carcinoma.
Methods:
Samples were obtained from 20 patients with basal cell carcinomas and subjected to a standard avidin biotin complex/alkaline phosphatase immunohistochemical technique using a panel of antibodies.
Results:
There was a consistent abnormality of expression of epiligrin, alpha 6, and beta 4.
Conclusion:
We propose that reduced expression of epiligrin is involved in the pathogenesis of the local invasion by tumor and that an altered integrin ratio in basal cell carcinoma enhances tumor spread.
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