Abstract
Background: The inhibitor of DNA binding (Id) proteins have been implicated in oncogenic transformation, progression and in tumor angiogenesis, the last one by regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. Notwithstanding, these mechanisms have not been fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Ids 1,2,3 and VEGF expression and angiogenesis amount in non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and their role on patients' prognosis.
Methods: Immunohistochemistry and morphometry were used to evaluate Ids, VEGF expression and microvessel density (CD34+) in neoplastic and stromal cells from 85 patients with surgically excised NSCLC. The impact of these markers was tested on follow-up until death from recurrence lung cancer.
Results: The Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that expression of Id-1, CD34 and VEGF were associated with poor prognosis (Log Rank Test, p<0.001). A Cox model analysis controlled for histological type, lymph node stage, Ids, VEGF, CD34 and age demonstrated that only Id1, Id3 and vascular density were significantly associated with survival time. A point at the median for Id1, Id3 and vascular density divided patients into 2 groups, each one with distinctive prognosis. Those with higher expression of Id1, Id3 and vascular density had a higher risk of death when compared to those with lower Id-1, Id-3 and vascular density.
Conclusion: In resected NSCLC, Id1, Id3, VGF and vascular density were strongly associated with prognosis. Therefore, Id1 and Id3 seem to contribute on tumor progression and should be considered as prognostic markers in NSCLC.
- © 2012 ERS
