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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Expression of p16 protein in acral lentiginous melanoma

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Author(s):
Hsieh, Ricardo ; Firmiano, Aline ; Sotto, Mirian N. [1]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Med, Dept Dermatol, Sch Med, BR-01246903 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY; v. 48, n. 12, p. 1303-1307, DEC 2009.
Web of Science Citations: 5
Abstract

Background Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a clinicopathologic subtype of cutaneous malignant melanoma. ALM is the most common type of melanoma amongst Asians, Africans, and patients with mixed ancestry. In Brazil, ALM comprises 10% of cutaneous melanoma. ALM develops on palmar, plantar, and subungual skin, and its biology is different from that of other cutaneous melanomas, where sunlight is the major known environmental determinant. Alterations and inactivation of the p16INK4 gene that encodes a specific inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase have been related to melanoma genesis and progression. Few studies, however, have addressed p16 expression in ALM. Methods In order to verify and compare p16 protein expression, 32 paraffin-embedded ALM specimens were subjected to a immunohistochemical technique using a monoclonal anti-p16 antibody. The tumors were classified according to thickness (up to 1.0 mm and thicker than 1.0 mm) and the presence of ulceration. Results Twenty-five (78%) ALMs displayed positive p16 protein expression: 21 of the 25 (84%) with a thickness of more than 1.0 mm, and four of the seven (57%) with a thickness of 1.0 mm or less. Thirteen of the 17 (76%) nonulcerated lesions and 12 of the 15 (80%) ulcerated lesions displayed positive p16 protein expression. Conclusion The data obtained suggest that p16 protein expression per se may not represent a marker of retinoblastoma protein (pRb) pathway disturbance in ALM tumorigenesis. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 06/52671-2 - Expression of p16 protein in acral lentiginous melanoma
Grantee:Aline Firmiano
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation