Abstract:

To evaluate the amplification of the centrosome and overexpression of P53 protein in human esophageal carcinoma and to investigate the correlation between centrosome amplification and overexpression of P53 protein. MethodsExpressions of P53 protein  and centrosome were identified by using an immunohistochemical method or immunofluorescence technique. 50 patients with esophageal carcinoma, 22 patients with atypical hyperplasia and 12 controls were enrolled in this study. ResultsExpression of P53 protein was higher in 88% of patients with esophageal carcinoma, lower in 54% of patients with atypical hyperplasia and absent in normal esophageal tissues. No centrosome amplification was observed in normal esophageal tissues. Centrosome amplification was observed in part of the atypical hyperplasia group. And obvious centrosome amplification was found in esophageal carcinoma. Expression of P53 protein was significantly correlated with centrosome amplification in esophageal carcinoma (P<0.05). ConclusionOverexpression of P53 protein and centrosome amplification are present in an early stage of esophgeal carcinoma. P53 protein may contribute to centrosome amplification and the carcinogenesis of esophgeal carcinoma.

Key words: Esophageal neoplasms; Centrosome; P53 protein