Tumor Necrosis and Integrin Expression in Melanomas
Author Information
Author(s): Bachmann Ingeborg M, Ladstein Rita G, Straume Oddbjørn, Naumov George N, Akslen Lars A
Primary Institution: The Gade Institute, University of Bergen, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
Hypothesis
Rapid growth in cutaneous melanomas of the vertical growth phase might lead to tissue hypoxia, alterations in apoptotic activity and tumor necrosis.
Conclusion
Tumor necrosis and apoptotic activity are important features of melanoma progression and prognosis, partly through alterations in cell adhesion molecules such as increased αvβ3 integrin expression.
Supporting Evidence
- Necrosis was present in 29% of nodular melanomas.
- Necrosis was associated with increased tumor thickness and poor patient outcome.
- Expression of αvβ3 integrin was significantly associated with tumor necrosis.
Takeaway
When melanoma tumors have dead tissue, they tend to grow faster and make patients sicker. This study found that a specific protein, αvβ3 integrin, is linked to this problem.
Methodology
A series of nodular melanoma cases were examined for necrosis, apoptotic activity, and expression of hypoxia markers and cell adhesion proteins.
Participant Demographics
The study included 202 cases of nodular melanoma and 31 benign melanocytic nevi.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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