Abstract
The implication of nitric oxide (NO*) in the multistep process of carcinogenesis prompted us to examine the expression of endothelial constitutive nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCCa). Eleven paraffin-embedded samples of normal oral mucosa, 3 reactive oral lesions, 13 samples of squamous dysplasia, and 120 specimens of HNSCCa were immunostained with an anti-NOS3 monoclonal antibody and graded on a 0 to 4+ scale of intensity. Normal squamous mucosa demonstrated very little NOS3 expression. Areas of normal mucosa, reactive mucosa, and dysplastic lesions associated with inflammation tended to demonstrate regional expression of NOS3. Reactive mucosal lesions, squamous dysplasia, and HNSCCa demonstrated a significant (p<.0001) increase in global expression of NOS3. Therefore, NOS3 is expressed very little in histologically normal squamous mucosa, while squamous hyperplasia, dysplasia, and HNSCCa express significantly more NOS3. Regional variation in NOS3 expression appears to be associated with perilesional inflammation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
