Abstract
Purpose::
The hedgehog (Hh) family of genes, sonic hedgehog (Shh), Indian hedgehog (Ihh), and desert hedgehog (Dhh) encode signaling molecules that regulate multiple functions during organ development and in neoplastic diseases.To examine if cell of ocular surface neoplasm express Sonic hedgehog (Shh), Indian hedgehog (Ihh), and desert hedgehog (Dhh) a morphogen which is also involved in cell proliferation regulation.
Methods::
Samples of human conjunctival tissue(n=3), pterygium(n=3) ,papilloma(n=3), squamous cell carcinoma(n=3) were included and immunohistochemically examained.
Results::
Conjunctival epithelial cells were weakly stained for Shh,Ihh,Dhh ,Gli3, a signal transmitter from the Shh receptor, and proliferating nuclear cell antigen (PCNA). whereas cells in a papillpma and squamous cell carcinoma were markedly labeled with the antibody. Staining pattern of epithelial cells in pterygium was similar to that seen in uninjured conjunctiva.
Conclusions::
Shh, Ihh,Dhh was constitutively expressed in epithelial cells of the conjunctiva. Shh, Ihh,Dhh was up-regulated in ocular surface epithelial neoplasm. The hedgehog (Hh) family modulates cell proliferation in ocular surface epithelial neoplastic tissues
Clinical Trial::
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Keywords: tumors • signal transduction • conjunctiva