The Expression of Toll-like Receptors 2, 4, 5, 7 and 9 in Merkel Cell Carcinoma.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2015
Journal
Anticancer research
Volume
35
Issue
4
First Page
1843
Last Page
1849
URL with Digital Object Identifier
doi: 10.1002/jmri.24659
Abstract
AIM: We sought to clarify whether the expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is linked to tumor and patient characteristics, especially the presence of Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCV).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study comprised of 128 patients with data on Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) status and clinical features were included in the study. Immunohistochemistry for TLR expression was performed on tissue microarray (TMA) slides.
RESULTS: TLR 2, 4, 5, 7 and 9 expression was noted in most of the tumor specimens. Decreased expression of TLR 9 correlated strongly with MCV positivity. Cytoplasmic TLR 2 expression correlated with small tumor size, while nuclear TLR 2 and TLR 5 expressions with larger tumors. Increased nuclear TLR 4 expression and decreased TLR 7 expression were associated with older age.
CONCLUSION: TLR 2, 4, 5, 7 and 9 appear to reflect certain clinicopathological variables and prognostic markers of MCC tumors.
