Qualitative and Quantitative Typing of AgNORs and Expression of C-erbB-2 Oncoprotein in Hyperplastic, Dysplastic and Neoplastic Prostatic Lesions

The C-erbB-2 proto-oncogene (also called HER-2 or neu) encodes a 185 Kda transmembrane glycoprotein [1]. It was mentioned that this protein is closely related, but yet different to EGF-receptor encoded by the C-erbB-2 proto-oncogene [6]. The structural alteration responsible for activation of C-erbB-2 gene is thought to result from a single mutation by a single amino acid substitution in the transmembrane domain [24]. Over expression of the protein product, usually associated with gene amplification, has been demonstrated in a wide range of human adenocarcinomas originated in different organs (breast, ovary, stomach, colon, lung and pancreas). For mammary and ovarian carcinomas a strong correlation between CerbB-2 amplification and poor prognosis of the disease has been observed [25,28]. However, very little is known concerning the roles of growth factors, growth factor receptors or proto-oncogenes in the development and progression of prostatic adenocarcinomas [21].