Analysis of Prolactin Receptor Expression in Primary Colorectal Cancers, Corresponding Metastases and Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines. Therapeutic Option for Affected Patients?

Abstract

Background: The role of human prolactin and its receptor, the prolactin receptor, in colorectal cancer has been controversially discussed over the past two decades. Recent data indicates that prolactin receptor signaling contributes to tumor growth through an auto-/paracrine loop. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence of prolactin receptor expression, its association with clinicopathological variables, as well as its prognostic value, comparing results of primary tissues with those of corresponding metastases. Methods: 373 primary colorectal cancer and 171 corresponding metastases were evaluated for prolactin receptor expression by immunohistochemistry using a tissue microarray technique. Immunoreactivity was semiquantitatively scored as either focal (50%). Prolactin receptor expression was related to clinicopathological parameters as well as patient’s outcome. To substantiate our findings, prolactin receptor expression was additionally assessed in HT-29 and SW-480 colorectal cancer cell lines using western blot. Results: Prolactin receptor expression was observed in 360 out of 373 (97%) primary tumors, with 21 (6%) cases showing focal, 55 (15%) moderate and 284 (76%) extensive expression, respectively. Extensive prolactin receptor expression was significantly associated with tumor size (P=0.002) and grade (P

Datum der Bewilligung	2011
Originalsprache	Englisch
Gradverleihende Hochschule	Medizinische Universität Graz
Betreuer/-in	Cord Langner (Betreuer*in)