Analysis of cyclooxygenase-2 expression in patients with familial adenomatous ployposis / 第二军医大学学报

ABSTRACT

Objective: To analyze the expression of cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2) in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis and to discuss the possible role of COX-2 in adenoma formation and cancerization. Methods: The aden oma specimens were obtained from 10 FAP patients (2001-2003). Different sizes (≤0.5 cm and ≥1 cm) of adenomas and cancerous adenomas were subjected to Envision immunohistochemistry for analysis of COX-2 protein expression. Results: COX-2 was mainly detected in epithelial cells, with some in interstitial cells. When ≤0.5 cm, COX-2 expression in adenomatous epithelial cells was stronger than in normal epithelial cells (P> 0.05); the same was true when ≥1.0 cm, but with statistical significance (P0.05). Conclusion: COX-2 may be a stimulative factor in the progression of FAP and may participate in adenoma formation and cancerization. Selective inhibition of COX-2 may be an effective strategy for preventing FAP.