Abstract
Purpose: :
In the past decade, many of the choroidal melanoma molecular pathogenesis evidences have emerged to reveal a complex network of molecular events responsible of primary tumor oncogenesis and progression to malignant phenotypes. Nevertheless, choroidal nevi risk of transformation into malignant choroidal melanoma is still unpredictable. We have recently identified the in vitro secretion of DJ-1 oncoprotein from choroidal melanoma tumors and more interestingly, we have proved the possibility to detect this protein in the serum of certain choroidal melanoma patient's serum (Pardo et al., 2006, 2007). The purpose of this study is to correlate known ultrasonographic factors predictive of growth with DJ-1 serum levels in choroidal nevi patient sera.
Methods: :
Predictive ultrasonographic factors were analyzed in choroidal nevi patients (n=30) by 20 and 10 MHz ultrasonography following the criteria from the COMS. Additionally, other clinical features associated to poorer risk such as symtoms, orange pigment or drusens were also examined. Serum levels of DJ-1 protein were analyzed in the mentioned patients and in healthy age/sex matched volunteers (n=25) by quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay (ELISA).
Results: :
While no statistically significant difference was found in DJ-1 serum concentration between choroidal nevi patients and healthy individuals (mean 65.9 ng/ml vs. 41.5 ng/ml; p >.05), DJ-1 variations were found within the choroidal group of patients. Interestingly, DJ-1 serum levels in these patients were significantly higher in those nevi with tumor thickness >1.5 mm (p < .003), basal diameter > 8 mm ( p < .03 ) and ultrasonographic hollowness ( p < .0001 ).
Conclusions: :
Elevated DJ-1 oncoprotein serum levels correlate with ultrasound risk factors in choroidal nevi. The protein DJ-1 seems to be a promising factor predictive of growth in choroidal nevi and a potential biomarker for malignancy.
Keywords: choroid • melanoma • tumors