MDM2 Gene Amplification and Over-Expression in Soft Tissue Tumors
Author Information
Author(s): HELEN PATTERSON, DIANA BARNES, SANDRA GILL, JAMES SPICER, CYRIL FISHER, MERION THOMAS, ROBERT GRIMER, CHRIS FLETCHER, BARRY GUSTERSON, COLIN COOPER
Primary Institution: Institute of Cancer Research
Hypothesis
Does amplification of the MDM2 gene correlate with its over-expression in soft tissue tumors?
Conclusion
The study found a clear correlation between MDM2 gene amplification and its over-expression in malignant soft tissue tumors.
Supporting Evidence
- Gene amplification was identified in 12.3% of malignant tumors.
- 54% of malignant tumors showed MDM2 over-expression.
- All tumors with MDM2 amplification also showed over-expression.
- MDM2 over-expression was found in tumors without gene amplification.
Takeaway
This study looked at tumors to see if a specific gene, MDM2, was copied more than usual and if that meant there was more of the MDM2 protein. They found that when the gene was copied more, there was also more protein.
Methodology
The study used Southern analysis to examine gene amplification and immunohistochemical staining to assess protein over-expression in soft tissue tumors.
Limitations
The study did not find a clear correlation between the degree of amplification and the histological subtype or grade of the tumors.
Participant Demographics
The study included 129 tumors, comprising various types of malignant and benign soft tissue tumors.
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