Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway impairment plays a key role in the pathogenesis of basal-cell carcinomas (BCC), the most frequent skin tumor among Caucasians. Shh, Smo, and Gli2 family proteins are necessary for adequate and controlled cell proliferation. The aim of this study was to evaluate Shh, Smo, and Smo expression in BCC skin biopsies taken from sun-exposed areas. 41 BCC skin biopsies and 22 healthy skin specimens (the control group) taken from the same areas served as material for the study. All specimens were immunohistochemically stained with monoclonal antibodies directed against the chosen proteins. Shh and Smo expression (cytoplasmic pattern) were recorded semiquantitatively using a four-grade score (0-3). Gli2 expression (nuclear pattern) was determined using an image analysis system (semiautomatic function). The immunoexpression of the Shh and Smo proteins significantly increased in the BCC group, as compared with the normal controls (for Shh, the mean intensity was 1.67 in BCC vs. 1.17 in the control group, p < 0.001; for Smo, the mean intensity was 1.46 in BCC vs. 0.99 in the control group, p < 0.001). The staining for Gli2 in the BCC group was completely negative, but indicated the presence of Gli2 in the control patients (1.15 Gli2+ cells/100 cells). Sonic hedgehog pathway dysregulation may play an important role in skin cancerogenesis leading to BCC development.
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.
