Her-2/neu Expression in Node-negative Breast Cancer: Direct Tissue Quantitation by Computerized Image Analysis and Association of Overexpression with Increased Risk of Recurrent Disease

摘要: The HER-2/neu proto-oncogene (also known as c-erb B-2) is homologous with, but distinct from, the epidermal growth factor receptor. Amplification of this gene in node-positive breast cancers has been shown to correlate with both earlier relapse and shorter overall survival. In node-negative cancer patients, subgroup for which accurate prognostic data could make a significant contribution treatment decisions, utility amplification and/or overexpression controversial. purpose report address issues surrounding controversy evaluate carefully followed group patients using appropriately characterized reagents methods. we present from study expression designed specifically test whether or not associated an increased risk recurrence cancers. From cohort 704 women who experienced recurrent disease (relapsed cases) 105 were matched no (disease-free controls) after equivalent follow-up period. Immunohistochemistry was used assess archival tissue blocks relapsed cases their disease-free controls. Importantly, series molecularly specimens confirm that antibody sufficient sensitivity specificity identify those overexpressing protein formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded cohort. addition, quantitative approach developed more accurately amount identified by immunostaining tumor tissue. This done purified synthesized bacterial vector lysates derived cell lines, engineered express defined range oncoprotein levels. By cells levels calibration material, computerized image analysis immunohistochemical staining be determine product these lines well human specimens. Quantitation determined assays correlated very closely specimens.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)