Loss of cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion molecules in colorectal cancer (original) (raw)

Abstract

Adhesion molecules are thought to play a vital role in the induction and maintenance of tissue differentiation and their loss or down-regulation has been implicated in the neoplastic process. Recent studies have shown that the morphoregulatory activities are a consequence of interactive processes between several cell adhesion molecules rather than the function of a single molecule. Therefore, we have investigated a panel of adhesion molecules including members of the integrin, cadherin and immunoglobin superfamily in colorectal cancer. Twenty-eight consecutive colorectal adenocarcinomas were stained using an avidin-biotin indirect immunoperoxidase technique. Our results showed a consistent loss of the alpha 2 and beta 1 integrin subunits (21/28 = 75% and 22/28 = 78.6% respectively) and a decrease in expression of E-cadherin in 5/5 poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas. Carcinoembryonic antigen expression was preserved but with basolateral accentuation seen in tumours. There was no statistical correlation with Dukes' stage. These results provide further evidence that in colorectal cancer there is a widespread deregulated expression of cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion molecules. Changes in the expression and function of adhesion molecules which regulate growth and differentiation may play a role in the behaviour of colorectal cancer.

Access options

Subscribe to this journal

Receive 24 print issues and online access

$259.00 per year

only $10.79 per issue

Buy this article

USD 39.95

Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout

Additional access options:

Similar content being viewed by others

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, Rayne Institute, University College London, UK
    AK Nigam

Authors

  1. AK Nigam
  2. FJ Savage
  3. PB Boulos
  4. GW Stamp
  5. D Liu
  6. M Pignatelli

Rights and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Nigam, A., Savage, F., Boulos, P. et al. Loss of cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion molecules in colorectal cancer.Br J Cancer 68, 507–514 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1038/bjc.1993.377

Download citation