Unique ectopic lymph node-like structures present in human primary colorectal carcinoma are identified by immune gene array profiling.

ABSTRACT: We hypothesized that immune gene-related signatures would predict the presence of unique histological features of lymphoid cell infiltrates in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) that correlate with clinical parameters. Metagene analysis with gene chip technology was performed on 326 CRCs, which were then sorted by low versus high gene scores. Microscopically, CRCs with a high gene score revealed a marked host immune response organized, remarkably, as lymphoid follicles. Proliferation involved both B and T cells. In every case, the presence of CD79a(+) B-cell precursors was identified, suggesting that the lymphoid follicles represent newly formed, ectopic lymph node-like structures. CD21(+) dendritic cells were present within the follicular germinal centers, and CD3(+) T cells were localized mainly

SUBMITTER: Coppola D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3123872 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature