Abstract
We have studied the expression of alpha 6 beta 4 integrin, a carcinoma laminin receptor in ten squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and ten basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) of the skin in order to examine whether changes in alpha 6 beta 4 integrin expression may be related to invasive and metastatic potential. Monoclonal antibodies specific for each subunit were applied on cryosections, using a three step indirect peroxidase technique. In normal epidermis the basal cells expressed both the alpha 6 and the beta 4 subunits, and the expression was polarized against the basement membrane. In SCCs the expression of the alpha 6 and the beta 4 subunits paralleled each other, showing an increased intensity and loss of polarity. The BCCs, however, showed consistently decreased expression of both the alpha 6 and the beta 4 subunits. The results of our study, as well as those of other studies, support the assumption that the increase and depolarization of alpha 6 beta 4 integrin that occurs in SCCs might be related to the invasive properties of this tumour type.
Originalsprog | Engelsk |
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Tidsskrift | Acta Dermato Venereologica |
Vol/bind | 74 |
Udgave nummer | 2 |
Sider (fra-til) | 101-5 |
Antal sider | 5 |
ISSN | 0001-5555 |
Status | Udgivet - 1 mar. 1994 |