Expression of E-Cadherin and ? -Catenin in Gastric Carcinoma and its Correlation with the Clinicopathological Features

BACKGROUND; The E-cadherin-catenin complex plays a crucial role in epithelial cell-cell adhesion and in the maintenance of tissue architecture. Abnormal expression or function of this complex results in loss of intercellular adhesion, with possible consequent cell transformation and tumour progression. METHODS: Immunohistochemical staining for E-cadherin and -catenin was performed on paraffin sections of 80 gastric carcinomas at a tertiary hospital. RESULTS: Since E-cadherin and b-catenin complex are transmembranous molecules, normal membrane staining is observed in gastric mucosa. Abnormal expression of E-cadherin and -catenin was demonstrated in gastric carcinoma. Of the 80 gastric carcinoma cases studied 40 were Intestinal type and 39 were Diffuse type with 01 Mixed type. According to cancer grade, 27 were Well Differentiated, 14 were Moderately Differentiated and 39 were Poorly Differentiated. Abnormal staining for E-cadherin and -catenin was seen in 50 % and 47.5 % respectively in 40 cases of Intestinal type, and in 87.18 % and 76.9 % respectively in 39 cases of Diffuse type.1 case of Mixed type carcinoma showed abnormal staining for both markers. Abnormal staining for both markers were seen more in Poorly differentiated than in Well and Moderately differentiated carcinomas. CONCLUSION: The present study shows that E-cadherin and -catenin are implied in the initiation and progression of gastric carcinomas.