Role of myofibroblasts in tumour encapsulation of hepatocellular carcinoma in haemochromatosis
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common malignancy and a major complication of untreated haemochromatosis. Encapsulation of liver tumours has been associated with a better prognosis and longer disease-free periods following resection. This study investigated the source of the tumour capsule in patients with haemochromatosis and coexisting hepatocellular carcinoma and examined potential factors influencing development. Five haemochromatosis patients with encapsulated hepatocellular carcinoma were studied. Myofibroblasts were identified using combined immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridisation for alpha-smooth muscle actin and procollagen alpha1(I) mRNA, respectively. Immunohistochemistry was also performed for transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-beta receptor and malondialdehyde. Procollagen alpha1(I) mRNA co-localised to alpha-smooth muscle actin positive myofibroblasts. The number of myofibroblasts was maximal within the capsule and decreased away from the tumour. TGF-beta1 protein was expressed in iron-loaded cells in non-tumour liver at the interface of tumour capsule. PDGF-beta receptor expression was observed in mesenchymal cells in the tumour capsule and in portal tracts. Malondi...Continue Reading
References
Citations
Related Concepts
Related Feeds
Adrenocortical Carcinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of primary liver cancer and frequently occurs in individuals with chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis. Here is the latest research.
Carcinoma, Hepatocellular
Hepatocellular Carcinoma is a malignant cancer in liver epithelial cells. Discover the latest research on Hepatocellular Carcinoma here.