Abstract
BackgroundPrevious studies showed a differential distribution of the four regulatory subunits of cAMP-dependent protein kinases inside the brain, that changed in rodent gliomas: therefore, the distribution of these proteins inside the brain can give information on the functional state of the cells. Our goal was to examine human brain tumors to provide evidence for a differential distribution of protein kinase A in different tumors.MethodsThe distribution of detergent insoluble regulatory (R1 and R2) and catalytic subunits of cAMP dependent kinases was examined in pediatric brain tumors by immunohistochemistry and fluorescent cAMP analogues binding.ResultsR2 is organized in large single dots in medulloblastomas, while it has a different appearance in other tumors. Fluorescent cAMP labelling was observed only in medulloblastoma.ConclusionsA different distribution of cAMP dependent protein kinases has been observed in medulloblastoma.
Highlights
Previous studies showed a differential distribution of the four regulatory subunits of cAMPdependent protein kinases inside the brain, that changed in rodent gliomas: the distribution of these proteins inside the brain can give information on the functional state of the cells
Medulloblastoma is thought to arise from the granule cell precursors, that during development reside in the external granule cell layer of the cerebellum
In the normal rodent brain, we described a differential distribution of protein kinase (PKA) regulatory subunits, that changes during development and after chemical insults or surgical lesions
Summary
Previous studies showed a differential distribution of the four regulatory subunits of cAMPdependent protein kinases inside the brain, that changed in rodent gliomas: the distribution of these proteins inside the brain can give information on the functional state of the cells. Our goal was to examine human brain tumors to provide evidence for a differential distribution of protein kinase A in different tumors. Medulloblastoma is thought to arise from the granule cell precursors, that during development reside in the external granule cell layer of the cerebellum. The ubiquitous cAMP second messenger system involves the activation of different proteins, the most common being the cAMPdependent protein kinase (PKA), a complex of two homodimers, that upon binding of two cAMP molecules
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 call
