Expression of the epidermal growth factor receptor in astrocytic tumours is specifically associated with glioblastoma multiforme.

摘要: Epidermal growth factor and its receptor (EGFR) constitute an important well-characterized mitogenic system in various ectodermal tissues including glial cells. Over-expression of the EGFR due to gene amplification has been reported primary brain tumours origin. Using a monoclonal antibody immunohistochemical analysis, we examined expression distribution 103 astrocytic tumours. In addition, selected were studied by Western blotting using polyclonal Southern blot analysis. Glioblastomas (WHO grade IV) showed 37% cases, whereas pilocytic I), low-grade II) or anaplastic astrocytoma III) invariably negative. Generally, there was close correlation between presence over-expression protein. Different patterns immunoreactive cells significant intratumour heterogeneity observed glioblastomas. The specific association with glioblastoma may provide useful diagnostic tool for distinguishing multiforme IV).