Detection of regional lymph node metastases in colon cancer by using RT-PCR for matrix metalloproteinase 7, matrilysin.

摘要: Lymph node metastasis is the most important prognostic factor in colon cancer. However, more accurate screening for than that afforded by conventional pathology remains elusive. We have employed a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), ‘matrilysin’, because this gene epithelial-specific and consistently expressed colorectal cancer cells. The sensitivity of was examined with matrilysin-producing rectal cell line ‘CaR-1’. Matrilysin mRNA detected system when 10 matrilysin-positive cells existed lymph ordinary size. Fourteen 15 (93%) primary cancers none surrounding normal tissues matrilysin. All histologically-positive nodes were positive matrilysin, while 60 histologically-negative nodes, eight When additional sequential sectioning histological re-examinati on performed five these ‘matrilysin-positive, but histologically-negative’ micrometastases three. Only one histologically-positive, negative matrilysin from patient which not detected. In conclusion, RT-PCR sensitive method detecting occult metastases patients cancer, may complement histologic examination. © Rapid Science 1998