The expression of VEGF、KDR in hepatocellular carcinoma and its modulation by p53 and ras in human

Objective[WT5”BZ] To investigate the expression and roles of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor KDR in the angiogenesis, growth and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC),the modulation of VEGF by p53 and ras. [WT5”HZ]Methods[WT5”BZ] Using immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization and image analysis we studied 45 HCC paraffin embedded samples, and liver tissue of 21 cirrhotics and 8 normal controls.The relationship between VEGF、KDR and characteristics of HCC and the influences on the expression of VEGF by p53 and ras were investigated.[WT5”HZ] Results[WT5”BZ] Expression rate of VEGF (64 4% , 29/45) was significantly higher in HCC than in cirrhosis (14 3% , 3/21) and normal liver (12 5% , 1/8), which were closely related with the angiogenesis and metastasis of HCC. p53 upregulated the expression of VEGF ( P 0 05)and ras did not( P 0 05). KDR was expressed in both hepatocellular carcinoma cells and vascular endothelial cells.[WT5”HZ] Conclusion[WT5”BZ] VEGF has a strong expression in HCC,it has potential importance in the angiogenesis, growth and metastasis of HCC. [WT5”HZ]