Increased p53 Expression and Mutation in Choroidal Melanoma
Author Information
Author(s): K. Toball, W. Warren, C.S. Cooper, A. McCartney, J. Hungerford, S. Lightman
Primary Institution: Institute of Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital
Hypothesis
Is the mutation of the p53 gene an important step in the development of malignant melanoma?
Conclusion
The study found that a high proportion of choroidal melanomas exhibit over-expression of p53 protein, which correlates with the presence of mutations in the gene.
Supporting Evidence
- 12 out of 18 malignant choroidal melanomas showed high levels of mutant p53 protein expression.
- No elevated p53 expression was observed in seven choroidal naevi.
- Point mutations were found at codon 238 and codon 253 in two choroidal melanomas.
Takeaway
This study looked at eye tumors and found that many of them had a messed-up version of a protein called p53, which might help them grow.
Methodology
The study used immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis to assess p53 protein levels and PCR for mutation detection.
Limitations
The study could not correlate p53 mutations with prognosis due to the limited sample of recently enucleated eyes.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website