p53, Heat Shock Protein 70 and Topoisomerase II Expression in Gallbladder Carcinoma

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The present study was designed to investigate the expression of p53, Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70), and Topoisomerase (Topo) II alpha in the preneoplastic lesions and carcinomas of the gallbladder (GB) and to assess the correlation between the expression of these proteins and the clinicopathologic parameters by performing immunohistochemistry. METHODS: The immunohistochemical expressions of p53, HSP70 and Topo II alpha were evaluated in 38 gallbladder carcinomas and 3 adenomas. Fifteen CIS(s) and 8 dysplasias that were located adjacent to invasive carcinomas were also studied. RESULTS: A p53 expression was identified in 22 (57.9%) of the 38 GB carcinomas, in 9 (64.3%) of 14 CISs, and in none of the 8 dysplasias and 3 adenomas. A HSP70 expression was found in 11 (29%) of the 38 carcinomas, in 11 (78.6%) of 14 CIS(s), and in 4 (57.2%) of 7 dysplasias. A Topo II alpha expression was present in 36 (94.7%) of the 38 carcinomas, in 13 (92.9%) of 14 CIS(s), in 7 (100%) of 7 dysplasias and in 3 (100%) of 3 adenomas. p53 overexpression was related to the T stage of the primary tumor, while HSP70 and Topo II alpha were not related to any of the clinicopathologic parameters. CONCLUSION: p53 may be involved in GB carcinogenesis and in the progression of cancer. p53 may be also helpful for making the differential diagnosis between dysplasia and CIS. A further large study is needed to better elucidate the roles of HSP70 and Topo II alpha in GB carcinogenesis.