Search for neuro-endocrine markers (chromogranin A, synaptophysin and VGF) in breast cancers. An integrated approach using immunohistochemistry and gene expression profiling.

ABSTRACT: Discordant data are reported in the literature on the definition, incidence and clinical features of neuroendocrine (NE) carcinomas of the breast. This tumour entity is currently assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) detecting "general" NE markers such as chromogranin A (CHGA) and synaptophysin (SYP), but other markers have been considered as well. In the present study, in addition to CHGA and SYP, we investigated the expression of VGF, a neurotrophin-inducible gene, which is emerging as a new specific NE marker. In order to evaluate the differential expression of these neuro-endocrine markers in breast cancers, we conducted parallel immunohistochemical and gene expression analyses, using PCR, gene array and real-time quantitative PCR procedures. Data obtained in 28 cases were further val

SUBMITTER: Annaratone L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4160574 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature