p53 gene mutations in pituitary adenomas: rare events

Pathogenesis of prolactinomas

In recent years the demonstration that human pituitary adenomas are monoclonal in origin provides further evidence that pituitary neoplasia arise from the replication of a single mutated cell in which growth advantage results from either activation of proto-oncogenes or inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. However, with the exception of one RAS mutation identified in a single unusually aggressive prolactinoma resistant to dopaminergic inhibition that resulted to be lethal, no mutational changes have been so far detected in prolactinomas. In the absence of genetic changes, modifications in the level of expression of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes have been detected in these tumors, although it is unknown whether these changes have a causative role or are a secondary event. Indeed, our knowledge on the molecular events involved in lactotroph proliferation is even more limited in comparison to the other tumor types, since these tumors are very infrequently surgically removed and therefore available for molecular biology studies. In this respect, it is worth noting that the molecular and biological abnormalities so far described in prolactinomas mainly concern aggressive and atypical tumors and likely do not apply to the typical prolactinomas, that are characterized by good response to medical treatment and a very low growth rate.

Bases moleculares dos adenomas hipofisários com ênfase nos somatotropinomas

Esta revisão descreve as bases moleculares dos adenomas hipofisários com ênfase nos tumores secretores de GH (somatotropinomas). São discutidos os papéis de genes de supressão tumoral (como RB1, MEN-1) e de oncogenes (como gsp, PTTG) na iniciação e progressão destes tumores. A caracterização destes marcadores moleculares pode ajudar na compreensão do comportamento tumoral, auxiliando a conduta terapêutica. Entretanto, apesar dos recentes avanços, ainda não é totalmente conhecida a seqüência de alterações genéticas envolvidas na patogênese destes adenomas.

Isolation and characterization of a novel pituitary tumor apoptosis gene

To determine mechanisms for pituitary neoplasia we used methylation-sensitive arbitrarily primed-PCR to isolate novel genes that are differentially methylated relative to normal pituitary. We report the isolation of a novel differentially methylated chromosome 22 CpG island-associated gene (C22orf3). Sodium bisulfite sequencing of pooled tumor cohorts, used in the isolation of this gene, showed that only a proportion of the adenomas within the pools were methylated; however, expression analysis by quantitative RT-PCR of individual adenoma irrespective of subtype showed the majority (30 of 38; 79%) failed to express this gene relative to normal pituitary. Sodium bisulfite sequencing of individual adenomas showed that 6 of 30 (20%) that failed to express pituitary tumor apoptosis gene (PTAG) were methylated; however, genetic change as determined by loss of heterozygosity and sequence analysis was not apparent in the remaining tumors that failed to express this gene. In those cases where the CpG island of these genes was methylated it was invariably associated with loss of transcript expression. Enforced expression of C22orf3 in AtT20 cells had no measurable effects on cell proliferation or viability; however, in response to bromocriptine challenge (10-40 microm) cells expressing this gene showed a significantly augmented apoptotic response as determined by both acridine orange staining and TUNEL labeling. The apoptotic response to bromocriptine challenge was inhibited in coincubation experiments with the general caspase inhibitor z-VAD-fmk. In addition, in time course experiments, direct measurement of active caspases by fluorochrome-labeled inhibition of caspases, showed an augmented increase (approximately 2.4 fold) in active caspases in response to bromocriptine challenge in cells expressing C22orf3 relative to those harboring an empty vector control. The pituitary tumor derivation and its role in apoptosis of this gene led us to assign the acronym PTAG to this gene and its protein product. The ability of cells, showing reduced expression of PTAG, to evade or show a blunted apoptotic response may underlie oncogenic transformation in both the pituitary and other tumor types.

Mechanisms for pituitary tumorigenesis: the plastic pituitary

The anterior pituitary gland integrates the repertoire of hormonal signals controlling thyroid, adrenal, reproductive, and growth functions. The gland responds to complex central and peripheral signals by trophic hormone secretion and by undergoing reversible plastic changes in cell growth leading to hyperplasia, involution, or benign adenomas arising from functional pituitary cells. Discussed herein are the mechanisms underlying hereditary pituitary hypoplasia, reversible pituitary hyperplasia, excess hormone production, and tumor initiation and promotion associated with normal and abnormal pituitary differentiation in health and disease.

Genetics of pituitary tumors: Focus on G-protein mutations

In recent years the demonstration that human pituitary adenomas are monoclonal in origin has provided further evidence that pituitary neoplasia arise from the replication of a single mutated cell in which growth advantage results from either activation of proto-oncogenes or inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. While common oncogenes, such as Ras, are only exceptionally involved, the only mutations identified in a significant proportion of pituitary tumors, and particular in GH-secreting adenomas, occur in the Gsalpha gene (GNAS1) and cause constitutive activation of the cAMP pathway (gsp oncogene). Moreover, pituitary tumors overexpress hypothalamic releasing hormones, growth factors, and their receptors as well as cyclins involved in cell cycle progression. As far as the role of tumor suppressor genes in pituitary tumorigenesis is concerned, reduced expression of these genes seems to frequently occur in pituitary tumors as a consequence of abnormal methylation processes. Although the only mutational change so far identified in pituitary tumors is the gsp oncogene, this oncogene is not associated with a clear phenotype in patients bearing positive tumors. Mechanisms able to counteract the cAMP pathway, such as high sensitivity to somatostatin, and induction of genes with opposite actions, such as phosphodiesterases, CREB end ICER, or instability of mutant Gsalpha, have been proposed to account for the lack of genotype/phenotype relationships.

P53 and MIB-1 immunohistochemistry as predictors of the clinical behavior of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas

BACKGROUND

P53 expression and increased MIB-1 proliferation index have been shown to correlate with invasive behavior in pituitary adenomas. The purpose of this study was to determine whether these indices could be used to predict a higher likelihood of recurrence in clinically nonfunctional pituitary adenomas and thus guide adjuvant therapy.

METHODS

Fifty-one clinically nonfunctional pituitary adenomas were selected from the database at the Vancouver Hospital and Health Sciences Center between the years 1990-1998. Included were 32 nonrecurrent and 19 recurrent adenomas.

RESULTS

The mean initial labelling index for p53 in nonrecurrent tumours was 0.38% (0-1.58%), while it was 0.46% (0-3.65%) for recurrent adenomas. The mean initial MIB-1 index for nonrecurrent tumours was 1.63% (0.08-9.36%), while for recurrent tumours it was 1.92% (0-7.76%). The percentage of p53 positive adenomas was 66% for nonrecurrent tumours and 68% for recurrent tumours. None of the differences in the labelling indices between the recurrent and nonrecurrent groups was statistically significant. As 12 patients (38%) in the nonrecurrent group had undergone radiotherapy as initial adjuvant therapy after surgery and none of the recurrent group had done so, patients who did not receive radiotherapy in the nonrecurrent group were analyzed separately. Again, none of the differences in the labelling indices between the recurrent and nonrecurrent groups was statistically significant when the effect of radiotherapy was removed from the analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate no statistical difference in the p53 or MIB-1 labelling indices between recurrent and nonrecurrent nonfunctional pituitary adenomas. Concern should be raised in attaching too much clinical significance to these labelling indices, especially with respect to p53 as a predictor of the clinical behavior of nonfunctional pituitary adenomas.

Telomerase activity in pituitary adenomas: significance of telomerase expression in predicting pituitary adenoma recurrence

Clinical and histopathological evaluations are inadequate for assessing biological aggressiveness and regrowth potential in benign pituitary adenomas. To develop reliable and prognostically informative means of predicting behavior remains an intractable problem. Telomerase, a reverse transcriptase that extends telomere length, may facilitate tumorigenesis and tumor immortality. In the present study, we investigated the telomerase activity of pituitary adenomas, and attempted to assess the value of telomerase expression for predicting their clinical course. In total, 31 (30 patients) benign pituitary adenoma samples including 8 recurrent adenomas were studied. Telomerase expression was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) assay and telomerase activity levels were quantitated by improved PCR enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data were analyzed in relation to clinical course which was reviewed at 4-5.5 years (median follow-up time, 52.5 months) after surgery. The relative values of the telomerase expression for predicting the clinical course were compared with the MIB-1 antigen-based proliferative cell index (PCI) and p53 immunoreactivity which have recently been suggested to correlate with aggressive behavior in pituitary adenomas. Overall, telomerase expression was detected in 13% of the adenomas (4 tumor tissues, 3 patients). These adenomas comprised large, invasive, and functioning adenomas. The number of telomerase-positive adenomas was small; however, the PCI was higher in cases with telomerase expression (4 tumor tissues; mean, 4.2 +/- 2.4%) than in those without it (27 tumor tissues; 1.4 +/- 1.3%) (p = 0.01). One tumor with detectable telomerase expression, which did not undergo additional pharmacological or radiotherapeutic intervention after first surgery, recurred rapidly despite gross total surgical resection, although the PCI of both the primary and recurrent adenomas was not high. Detection of telomerase expression may represent an additional useful means of identifying aggressive behavior, complementing the histopathological evaluation of benign-appearing pituitary adenomas.

Polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecules expressed in human pituitary tumors and related to extrasellar invasion

OBJECT

Pituitary adenomas are usually benign tumors; however, some behave aggressively and metastasize. Until now, no specific marker of aggressive behavior or malignancy has been found. The polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), which is highly expressed in embryonic tissues such as the brain and pituitary, is detected in some and neuroendocrine tumors. Because polysialylation has been implicated in the regulation of cell growth and migration, polysialylated NCAM expression has been considered as a prognostic marker in such tumors.

METHODS

In the present study, the authors analyzed polysialylated NCAM expression in 82 pituitary tumors from humans: 49 secreting adenomas, 32 nonfunctioning adenomas, and one growth hormone and prolactin-secreting carcinoma associated with acromegaly and spinal and liver metastases. Based on immunohistochemical analyses, the tumors were classified as somatotropic (22 tumors), prolactinoma (14 tumors), corticotropic (17 tumors), and gonadotropic or so-called null cell adenomas (28 tumors). Assessment of polysialylated NCAM was performed using three different methods (immunohistochemical analysis, Western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) with a specific mouse monoclonal immunoglobulin M (Men B) that recognizes polysialic acid on NCAM. Tumoral NCAM expression was also evaluated with the aid of immunohistochemical analysis. Using this method, NCAM and polysialylated NCAM were studied in six healthy pituitaries. In addition, correlations were investigated using three statistical methods (chi-square test, nonparametric Mann-Whitney U-test, and principal component analysis) to compare tumoral polysialylated NCAM expression and seven parameters (tumor size and type, intrasphenoidal or cavernous sinus invasion, Ki-67 index, mitoses, and patient age and sex). Neural cell adhesion molecules were expressed in the healthy anterior pituitary and in all tumors. In contrast, polysialylated NCAM was not found in the healthy pituitary gland, but was expressed in 46.3% of typical pituitary tumors and 85% of the tumors selected as highly aggressive, including one carcinoma and three tumors with histological characteristics that raised suspicion of malignancy. There was no significant correlation between polysialylated NCAM expression and tumor size, tumor type, Ki-67 index, mitoses, or patient age and sex. In contrast, the expression of polysialylated NCAM, which was sensitive to endoneuraminidase-N treatment, was strongly correlated with tumor invasion (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In pituitary tumors in humans, expression of polysialylated NCAM is strongly related to tumor invasion and confirms the clinical diagnosis of aggressiveness.

Molecular defects in the pathogenesis of pituitary tumours

The majority of pituitary adenomas are trophically stable and change relatively little in size over many years. A comparatively small proportion behave more aggressively and come to clinical attention through inappropriate hormone secretion or adverse effects on surrounding structures. True malignant behaviour with metastatic spread is very atypical. Pituitary adenomas that come to surgery are predominantly monoclonal in origin and roughly half are aneuploid, indicating either ongoing genetic instability or transition through a period of genetic instability at some time during their development. Few are associated with the classical mechanisms of tumour formation but it is generally believed that the majority harbour quantitative if not qualitative differences in molecular composition compared to the normal pituitary. Despite their prevalence and the ready availability of biopsy material, at the present time, the precise molecular pathogenesis of the majority of pituitary adenomas remains unclear. This review summarizes current thinking.

Growth factors and human pituitary adenomas

In recent years the demonstration that human pituitary adenomas are monoclonal provides further evidence of genomic mutations occurring in the progenitor cell that subsequently undergoes clonal expansion. Up to now the only mutations identified in a significant proportion of pituitary tumors, and particular in GH-secreting adenomas, occur in the Gsalpha gene and cause constitutive activation of the cAMP pathway. Subsequent studies revealed that these mutations are associated with several feedback mechanisms that, at least in part, counteract the oncogenic potential of mutant Gsalpha. As far as the promoting agents are concerned, several lines of evidence indicate that in pituitary tumors growth factors or their receptors may be overexpressed at variable levels. The contribution of these defects in human pituitary tumorigenesis remains to be established.

Tumor formation in mice with somatic inactivation of the retinoblastoma gene in interphotoreceptor retinol binding protein-expressing cells

The retinoblastoma suppressor gene product Rb has been assigned a critical role in cell cycle regulation, the induction of differentiation, and inhibition of oncogenic transformation. Inheritance of a mutant RB allele in humans is responsible for bilateral retinoblastoma, a malignant tumor of the retina. Trilateral retinoblastoma (TRB) is a rare variant of familial retinoblastoma in which, in addition to retinal tumors, tumors develop from the pineal gland, an organ ontologically related to the retina. Germline inactivation of Rb in mice leads to mid-gestational lethality with defects in erythropoeisis and neurogenesis. This embryonic lethality prohibits the analysis of Rb function in selected cell types at later stages of development or in the adult. Here, we describe the Cre-LoxP mediated somatic inactivation of Rb in a subset of neuroendocrine cells, including photoreceptor cells. We observed neuroendocrine tumors of the pineal and pituitary gland. These tumors invariably showed inactivation of Rb and Trp53. Remarkably, loss of Rb in photoreceptor cells does not lead to retinoblastoma or any phenotypic changes, not even when photoreceptor cells are made deficient in Rb, p107 and Trp53. Our results highlight the important differences that exist in tumor susceptibility between mice and man (e.g pineal gland) and question the photoreceptor cell origin of human retinoblastoma.

Expression of p53 protein in pituitary adenomas

Inactivating mutations of TP53, a tumor suppressor gene, are associated with abnormal cell proliferation. Although p53 expression is common in many human malignancies, p53 protein has seldom been evaluated in pituitary tumors. When detected, the percentage of p53-positive cells is low, and, in general, it is exclusive for invasive lesions. The aim of the present study was to use immunohistochemistry to determine the presence of p53 protein in pituitary adenomas from tumor samples of 163 surgeries performed in 148 patients (40% male, 60% female). In 35% of the cases the adenoma was nonfunctional, while in the others it was associated with PRL, GH and/or ACTH endocrine hypersecretion syndrome. Macroadenomas were observed in 83.2% of the cases with available neuroimage evaluation, of which 28% invaded the cavernous, sphenoid and/or ethmoidal sinus, bone, third ventricle or subfrontal lobe. p53 protein was detected in 2/148 patients (1.3%). Immunohistochemistry was positive for PRL and GH in these cases. Due to the high percentage of invasive pituitary adenomas found in our study, the low frequency of p53 detection suggests that it is inadequate as a routine marker for aggressiveness and as a predictive factor of tumor behavior.

Molecular pathology of pituitary adenomas

A great deal of knowledge about anterior pituitary development, the pathogenesis of pituitary tumor and pituitary tumor progression has accumulated during the past decade. The role of multiple genes and gene products in pituitary development and the relationship of these genes to postnatal pituitary function and pituitary tumor development are being actively explored. Recent studies indicate that genes important in pituitary development do not contribute to pituitary tumorigenesis. However, mutations and other genetic alterations in these genes often lead to pituitary hypofunction. Many oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes that contribute to pituitary tumorigenesis have been described. There is a growing body of evidence showing that cellular and molecular changes in cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors contribute to pituitary tumorigenesis. Finally, recent comparative genomic hybridization studies show that many more genes that are important in pituitary tumorigenesis and tumor progression have yet to be discovered.

Genesis of pituitary adenomas: state of the art

In recent years, remarkable progress has been made in the understanding of the pathogenesis of pituitary tumors. Pituitary tumors originate from the uncontrolled proliferation of a single transformed cell in which an initiating event has caused a gain of proliferative function. After the initiation, promoting factors cooperate in the clonal expansion. Common oncogenes, such as ras, are only exceptionally involved. The only activating mutations identified so far are gsp mutations causing the constitutive activation of cAMP pathway. However, gsp-positive adenomas are not associated to a more aggressive tumoral phenotype. The oncogenic potential of gsp mutations is limited by a more rapid degradation of the mutant Gs(alpha) with respect to the wild-type protein, and by a faster removal of cAMP due to increased phosphodiesterase activity. Estrogen-inducible gene sequences with transforming properties (pituitary tumor-transforming gene (PTTG)) have been identified in human pituitary tumors. Human pituitary tumor-transforming gene (hPTTG) is involved both in early pituitary tumorigenesis, as it causes in vitro and in vivo transformation acting as a transcription activator, and in tumor progression, as it regulates the production of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a potent activator of angiogenesis and mitogenesis. Moreover, a role of cyclin D1 in pituitary tumorigenesis is emerging. The allelic loss of loci for unknown oncosuppressor genes are currently under investigation, while an exceedingly limited role for menin gene and RB1 has been demonstrated for sporadic pituitary tumors. Abnormal methylation that predisposing toward genetic instability may favor the allelic loss or the reduced expression of oncosuppressor genes, is also an emerging field of investigation. Several promoting factors, including the excessive action of physiological stimulators, the defective action of inhibitors, the susceptibility to respond to inappropriate stimuli and the locally produced growth factors, help in tumor progression. The study of homeobox genes that intervene in pituitary cell differentiation may help in expanding our knowledge in pituitary tumor cell genealogy.

Gain of chromosome 3 and loss of 13q are frequent alterations in pituitary adenomas

Genetic changes underlying the tumorigenesis of pituitary adenomas (PA) are poorly characterized. To search for characteristic genomic imbalances involved in PA, we examined 38 cases: 12 hormone-secreting (HS) and 26 non-functioning (NF) PA, by comparative genomic hybridization. The most frequent DNA copy number change in both kinds of tumors was loss of 13q. Gains of chromosomes 3, 7 and 14, 6p, and 20q were more frequent in HSPA than in NFPA. These data indicate that the 13q region may harbor tumor suppressor genes determining the tumorigenesis of PA and gain in chromosome 3 may be related to hormone secretion. These findings provide a basis to search for candidate diagnostic markers of HSPA.

Absent p53 immunohistochemical staining in a pituitary carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Carcinomatous transformation of pituitary adenomas is uncommon, and is generally accompanied by nuclear accumulation of p53 protein. Pituitary carcinoma lacking accumulation of p53 protein is very rare, only two such cases being previously reported.

METHODS

A patient presented with visual disturbance and cranial nerve palsies and was found to have a suprasellar mass. He underwent both transphenoidal and transfrontal excision of a nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma which recurred several times. The third recurrence was accompanied by multiple dural-based metastases. Despite aggressive surgical management, he continued to develop additional intracranial lesions and died two years after the discovery of metastatic disease. Specimens from 1984, 1995, 1997 and 1998 were available for histological and immunocytochemical analysis. Antibodies recognizing the pituitary hormones (ACTH, PRL, GH, FSH, LH and TSH), as well as cytokeratin, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and chromogranin A were applied to investigate the lineage of the neoplasm. Antisera specific for Ki-67 (MIB-1) and p53 protein were also applied to further delineate the biology of the tumour.

RESULTS

Although cytokeratin and chromogranin A were detected in neoplastic cells. no expression of pituitary hormones was demonstrable, indicative of a nonfunctioning, null-cell pituitary adenoma. Nuclear pleomorphism and mitotic activity increased with subsequent resections. Abnormal accumulation of p53 protein was not observed, neither in early resections nor in the metastatic deposits.

CONCLUSIONS

Failure to demonstrate p53 protein accumulation does not ensure a favourable outcome for pituitary adenoma. Accordingly, pituitary carcinoma may occur in the absence of p53 accumulation. The factors which underlie aggressive behaviour of pituitary neoplasms are uncertain but are under investigation.

Mdm2 and the p53 pathway in human pituitary adenomas

OBJECTIVE

Studies on pituitary tumours have failed to identify mutations in the tumour suppressor gene p53 suggesting that the protein identified is wild type. p21(WAF--1) is a downstream effector of p53 which promotes growth arrest. Mdm2 (mouse double minute) is a protein induced by wild type p53 and forms an autoregulatory feedback loop suppressing wild type p53 activity. The purpose of this study was to examine a group of pituitary tumours for expression of p53 and its two downstream effector proteins p21(WAF--1) and mdm2 and to compare this with their radiological invasive status and proliferative potential as assessed by Ki-67 expression.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Sixty-nine tumours removed at transsphenoidal surgery were examined by immunocytochemistry using antibodies against p53, p21(WAF--1), mdm2 and Ki-67 (MIB-1). The invasive status of the tumours was determined from the preoperative CT/MRI scans.

RESULTS

p53 was expressed in 42 of 69 (61%) pituitary adenomas but there was no relationship with either pituitary tumour invasive status (P = 0.71) or volume (P = 0.33). p53 expression correlated, however, with the proliferative state of the tumours as assessed by the MIB-1 labelling index (P = 0.0065). Invasive tumours had a higher growth fraction than non-invasive ones (P = 0.027). p21(WAF--1) was expressed in the nuclei of 58/69 (84%) pituitary adenomas and its expression correlated with that of p53 (r = 0.26, P = 0.03). Mdm2 was expressed in the cytoplasm of 46/69 (67%) tumours and this correlated with the nuclear staining for p53 (P = 0.022) while nuclear staining was seen in 32/69 (46%) tumours but this did not correlate significantly with nuclear p53 staining (P = 0.096).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that p53, p21(WAF--1) and mdm2 are all expressed in pituitary tumours suggesting that the p53 protein detected by immunocytochemistry is wild type. Expression of p53 is associated with tumours which have a higher proliferative status. The p53 activity is probably the result of upstream signals of local stresses mediated through either genetic change, cytokines, hypoxia or hormonal factors. Our results suggest, however, that the downstream pathway mediated through the activities of p21(WAF--1) and mdm2 may be dysfunctional in these tumours.

Genetic heterogeneity and alterations in chromosome 9 loci in a localized region of a functional pituitary adenoma

The molecular alterations reported in pituitary adenomas include mutations at the G(s)alpha in somatotrophinomas, and hypermethylation of the p16 tumor suppressor gene. There are, however, no reports of genomic instability or intratumor genetic heterogeneity in pituitary adenomas. We have studied the microsatellite loci on the short arm of chromosome 9 (9p) and the DNA fingerprinting pattern, of adjacent compartments, about 2 mm across, in a functional chromophobe pituitary adenoma secreting growth hormone and prolactin. The microsatellite loci were studied by PCR amplification using locus specific primers, while the DNA fingerprinting pattern was studied by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. Normal leukocyte DNA was taken as control. Only one compartment (Ta) showed alterations in several of the microsatellite loci and in the RAPD pattern vis a vis corresponding normal DNA and also the other two compartments of the tumor. This provides evidence for the localized nature of genomic instability in this tumor.

Frequent nuclear accumulation of beta-catenin in pituitary adenoma

BACKGROUND

Beta-catenin (CTNNB1) is known to be a member of the cadherin-catenin superfamily and to function in cell-cell adhesion. However, it also has been reported that CTNNB1 plays an important role in carcinogenesis. In the current study, the authors observed expression of the CTNNB1 protein in primary pituitary adenomas to investigate the role of CTNNB1 in the development of pituitary adenomas.

METHODS

A total of 37 pituitary adenomas were analyzed. Expression of CTNNB1 and the cell proliferation marker Ki-67 were observed immunohistochemically. In addition, the authors performed direct sequencing to detect somatic mutations of exon 3 of the CTNNB1 gene.

RESULTS

Twenty-one of 37 pituitary adenomas (57%) demonstrated abnormal nuclear accumulation of CTNNB1. It is interesting to note that tumors with an accumulation of CTNNB1 in the nucleus showed a statistical tendency toward an association with increased immunoreactivity of Ki-67 (P < 0.05) whereas no significant correlation was detected between the status of CTNNB1 and other clinicopathologic features. Missense mutations in exon 3 of the CTNNB1 gene also were detected in the cases with abnormal nuclear accumulation of the CTNNB1 protein.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study suggest that up-regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway, including accumulation of mutant CTNNB1 in the nuclei, plays an important role in the tumorigenesis and development of adenoma in the pituitary gland.

Pituitary neoplasia induced by expression of human neurotropic polyomavirus, JCV, early genome in transgenic mice

In recent years, there has been mounting evidence pointing to the association of polyomaviruses with a wide range of human cancers. The human neurotropic polyomavirus, JCV, infecting greater than 75% of the human population produces a regulatory protein named T-antigen which is expressed at the early phase of viral lytic infection and plays a critical role in completion of the viral life cycle. Furthermore, this protein has the ability to transform neural cells in vitro and its expression has been detected in several human neural-origin tumors. To further investigate the oncogenic potential of the JCV early protein in vivo, transgenic mice expressing JCV T-antigen under the control of its own promoter were generated. Nearly 50% of the animals developed large, solid masses within the base of the skull by 1 year of age. Evaluation of the location as well as histological and immunohistochemical data suggest that the tumors arise from the pituitary gland. As T-antigen is known to interact with several cell cycle regulators, the neoplasms were analysed for the presence of the tumor suppressor protein, p53. Immunoprecipitation/Western blot analysis demonstrated overexpression of wild-type, but not mutant p53 within tumor tissue. In addition, co-immunoprecipitation established an interaction between p53 and T-antigen and overexpression of p53 downstream target protein, p21/WAF1. This report describes the analysis of inheritable pituitary adenomas induced by expression of the human polyomavirus, JCV T-antigen in transgenic mice where T-antigen disrupts the p53 pathway by binding to and sequestering wild-type p53. This animal model may serve as a useful tool to further evaluate mechanisms of tumorigenesis by JCV T-antigen.

Molecular pathogenesis of pituitary tumors

Pituitary tumors are the result of a monoclonal outgrowth where the intrinsic genetic defects involve oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes (TSG), and most likely genes responsible for differentiation. In addition, hypothalamic and intrapituitary derived growth factors are imposed upon these aberrant cells, contributing to their growth characteristics. While histological examination will not identify those tumors likely to progress toward an invasive phenotype or those destined toward recurrence recent advances in the molecular pathology of these tumors holds significant promise for prediction of recurrence and the design of novel treatment strategies. Moreover, emerging data clearly indicate that different molecular mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of the various pituitary tumor subtypes. Until recently the gsp oncogene was the only oncogene significantly associated with pituitary tumors; however, emerging data have describe a role for PTTG and cyclin D1 in pituitary tumorigenesis. For known and putative TSG loci, allelic losses on the long arms of chromosomes 10, 11, and 13 are significantly associated with the transition from the noninvasive to the invasive and metastatic phenotype, while losses on chromosome 9p occur early in pituitary tumorigenesis. Studies of known TSG at these loci, including the menin gene and RB1, would suggest a limited role, if any, in pituitary tumors. However, loss of pRB is evident in a proportion of somatotropinomas but is not associated with allelic loss of an RB1 intragenic marker. The gene encoding p16/CDKN2A is neither deleted nor mutated in pituitary tumors; however, its associated CpG island is frequently methylated and is associated with a loss of p16 protein expression. Allelic losses on chromosome 9p, frequent methylation, and loss of p16 protein appear as early changes in nonfunctional tumors, whereas they are infrequent events in somatotropinomas. The functional consequence of enforced expression of p16/CDKN2A in the mouse corticotroph cell line AtT20 has shown that it is responsible for a profound reduction in cell proliferation and the mechanism is a G(1) arrest, mimicking the in vivo role of this cell cycle regulator in most tissues. The combined data from several groups show that the allelic losses reported at known TSG loci are not accompanied by mutation in the retained allele. However, since abnormal methylation patterns may precede and predispose toward genetic instability this could account for the allelic losses on these chromosomes. Equally, since DNA methylation may lead to reduced expression of a gene it might also account for the reduced expression of as yet unidentified TSGs implicated in pituitary tumorigenesis. Collectively these studies hold significant promise as markers predictive of tumor behavior and point to novel treatment strategies, which may include the reactivation of TSGs that are intact but silenced through epigenetic mechanisms.

Molecular basis of pituitary oncogenesis

Recent advances in the molecular biology has served to unveil the underlying genetic and epigenetic alterations in pituitary adenomas. Three nuclear transcriptional factors, AP-1, CREB, and Pit-1, which are targets of protein kinase C and A, appear to play critical roles in both neoplastic growth and hormone secretion in hormone-producing adenomas. The alteration of G proteins such as Gs and Gi2 is a direct cause of the activation of such transcriptional factors. Autocrine growth factor/cytokine loops also contribute to the augmented signal transductions. Bromocriptine and somatostatin analogs have effects to lower cellular cAMP level through inhibitory G proteins, although the mechanism leading to cellular apoptosis is unknown. On the other hand, most non-functioning adenomas may not have PKC- or PKA-mediated oncogenic mechanisms. Although the loss of Rb and p27Kip1 genes has been demonstrated as a cause of murine pituitary adenomas, the role of tumor suppressor genes for human pituitary adenomas remains elusive. However, potential candidates for the suppressor genes are now emerging. The recently cloned multiple endocrine neoplasia type I gene is one example. Alterations of c-myc/bcl-2, and ras, although rare, appear to be an important cause of the process by which adenoma cells acquire aggressive phenotypes. Further studies on the links between abnormal signal transductions and aberrant tumor suppressor genes will be needed to clarify the whole picture of pituitary oncogenesis.

p27Kip1-deficient mice exhibit accelerated growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)-induced somatotrope proliferation and adenoma formation

p27Kip1 (p27) controls cell cycle progression by binding to and inhibiting the activity of cyclin dependent kinases. Disruption of the p27 gene in mice (p27-/-) results in increased body growth with a disproportionate enlargement of the spleen, thymus, testis, ovary and pituitary. The increase in pituitary size is due to selective hyperplasia of the intermediate lobe (IL) while the anterior lobe (AL) is not overtly affected. p27 heterozygous mice (p27+/-), as well as p27-/- mice, are hypersensitive to radiation- and chemical-induced tumors compared to wildtype (p27+/+) littermates. Therefore, unlike classical tumor suppressors, only a reduction in p27 levels is necessary to predispose tissues to secondary tumor promoters. Consistent with these studies is the fact that the p27 gene sequence and mRNA levels appear normal in human pituitary adenomas while p27 protein levels are decreased. Therefore, a reduction in p27 levels could be sufficient to sensitize pituitary cells to tumorigenic factors. To test this hypothesis, metallothionein promoter-driven, human growth hormone-releasing hormone (MT-hGHRH) transgenic mice, that exhibit somatotrope hyperplasia before 9 months of age and subsequent adenoma formation with 30 - 40% penetrance, were crossbred with p27+/- mice for two successive generations to produce p27+/+, p27+/- and p27-/- mice that expressed the hGHRH transgene. At 10 - 12 weeks of age, p27-/- and p27+/+, hGHRH mice were larger than their p27+/+ littermates and displayed characteristic hyperplasia of the IL and AL, respectively. Expression of the hGHRH transgene in both p27+/- and p27-/- mice selectively expanded the population of somatotropes within the AL, where pituitaries of p27+/-, hGHRH and p27-/-, hGHRH mice were two- and fivefold larger than p27+/+, hGHRH pituitaries, respectively. There was also a synergistic effect of hGHRH transgene expression and p27-deficiency on liver, spleen and ovarian growth. At 6 - 8 months of age, 83% of p27+/-, hGHRH mice displayed macroscopic AL adenomas (>100 mg), while all pituitaries from p27+/+, hGHRH mice remained hyperplastic (<20 mg). In contrast to the dramatic effects of p27-deficiency on hGHRH-induced organ growth, elimination of p53, by crossbreeding MT-hGHRH mice to p53-deficient mice, did not augment the hyperplastic/tumorigenic effects of hGHRH transgene expression. Taken together these results demonstrate that a reduction in p27 expression is sufficient to sensitize somatotropes to the proliferative actions of excess GHRH, resulting in the earlier appearance and increased penetrance of hGHRH-induced pituitary tumors.

Markers of function and proliferation in non-invasive and invasive bi- and plurihormonal adenomas of patients with acromegaly: an immunohistochemical study

Twenty-seven plurihormonal and 21 growth hormone- prolactin- (GH- PRL-) mixed cell adenomas obtained from patients with acromegaly undergoing transnasal-transsphenoidal surgery were investigated immunohistochemically for expression of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Transforming Growth Factor alpha (TGF alpha), Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), Estrogen Receptor-Related Protein (ERRP), Multidrug Resistance Marker (MDRM), Protein Kinase C (PKC), Gs alpha,. Cathepsin D and p53. Five plurihormonal adenomas grew invasively. The panel of markers used in this study represents a selection of functional and proliferative markers thought to be associated with the function and development of pituitary adenomas. Our results imply that the growth factors (EGF, TGF alpha, IGF-1), the cell signalling protein Gs alpha and the MDRM are expressed by both types of pituitary adenomas in a similar pattern. Non-invasive GH-PRL-mixed cell adenomas showed an increased expression of IGF-1, TGF alpha and MDRM compared to non-invasive plurihormonal adenomas. No factor was found which would reliably distinguish between invasive and non-invasive adenomas. We failed to confirm the findings of others that p53 and cathepsin D might be indicators of tumor aggressiveness. A participation of ERRP and PKC in the development of bi- and plurihormonal adenomas with acromegaly appears unlikely, as the immunostains were all negative.

p16 (INK4a, MTS-1) gene polymorphism and methylation status in human pituitary tumours

OBJECTIVE

The p16 gene, which encodes a physiological inhibitor of the cyclin D-CDK4 complex, is now considered as an important tumour-suppressor gene in a variety of tumours. A marked reduction of its expression has been reported to occur without significant genetic alterations in human pituitary adenomas, although rare point mutations of uncertain functional significance have been described. On the other hand, p16 gene silencing due to hypermethylation has been reported in several human primary tumours. The aim of this study was to further investigate the pathogenetic events leading to p16 gene inactivation in pituitary tumours.

DESIGN

To screen a european series of human pituitary tumours for p16 gene alterations and possible gene hypermethylation.

PATIENTS

A representative series of 31 human pituitary tumours-30 macroadenomas, including a MEN-1 non-secreting pituitary adenoma and a non-MEN-1 familial giant GH-secreting adenoma, and one FSH-secreting pituitary carcinoma-was studied.

METHODS

Polymerase chain reaction/single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) analysis was used to screen for p16 gene alterations in all cases. Direct sequencing of PCR-products was obtained by the di-deoxynucleotide method where suspected abnormalities of the PCR-SSCP analysis were observed. In 24 samples, a methylation-specific PCR assay (MSP-PCR) was used to determine p16 gene methylation status.

RESULTS

Two sporadic cases of pituitary adenomas had a similar single A to G base substitution leading to an heterozygous Ala140Thr p16 polymorphism, which has not previously been described in such tumours, but is known to be functionally silent. No other p16 abnormality could be suspected from PCR-SSCP analysis in this series. In contrast, the presence of methylated-specific PCR products was observed in 20/24 cases (83.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that p16 gene mutations are not involved in the pathogenesis of human pituitary tumours, although polymorphisms can be demonstrated, depending on the population considered. In contrast, the high incidence of hypermethylation of the p16 gene suggests that such an alteration occurs early in pituitary tumours, and may play a role in pituitary tumorigenesis.

Detection of chromosomal imbalances in growth hormone-secreting pituitary tumors by comparative genomic hybridization

Although recent molecular investigations have identified a number of genetic alterations that are associated with the development of pituitary adenomas, the exact pathogenesis mechanism of these tumors remains largely unknown. In this study, we used a genome-wide survey to detect specific genetic changes within the genome of pituitary adenomas. A series of 10 growth hormone-secreting adenomas were analyzed for their genetic imbalances on all 22 autosomes by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). Chromosomal imbalances were detected in 8 GH-secreting adenomas, whereas 2 tumors had no detectable genetic abnormalities. Chromosome gains were more frequent than losses. Overrepresentation of whole or parts of chromosomes were detected in 5/10 (50%) in 19, 3/10 (30%) in each of 5, 9, and 22q, 2/10 (20%) in 17p12-q21, whereas DNA loss were 3/10 (30%) in 13q and 2/10 (20%) in 18. No detectable gain or loss of genetic material was observed in chromosomes 7, 8, 10, 12, 15, and 20. The findings of overrepresentation of chromosomes 5q, 9p, 17q and DNA loss of chromosome 18 were consistent with those detected in nonfunctioning adenomas (Daniely M, Aviram A, Adams EF, et al:J Clin Endocrinol Metab 83:1801-1805, 1998) suggesting that the development of pituitary tumors, at least in somatotroph and nonfunctioning adenomas, may share common pathway. Frequent amplifications in chromosomes 19 and 22q imply that candidate genes residing in these chromosomal regions may be involved in the pathogenesis of GH-secreting adenomas.

Apoptosis in neuroendocrine tumours

Acquired resistance to apoptosis in neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) may promote clonal expansion and enhance the likelihood that subsequent mutations lead to growth or persistence of the neoplastic clone. Recent studies have demonstrated that deregulation of programmed cell death may be a critical component in multistep tumourigenesis of NETs and that the frequent expression of the Bcl-2 oncoprotein in these tumours may contribute to their pathogenesis. The genetic complementation of simultaneously deregulated Bcl-2 and c-Myc may be implicated in the multistep tumourigenesis of human NETs. Furthermore, because the efficacy of cytotoxic chemotherapy relies on its ability to induce programmed cell death, resistance to apoptosis typically correlates with chemoresistance, a phenomenon that is typical in NETs. Consideration of how oncogenes affect rates of cell death, in addition to augmenting growth, has already provided valuable insights into the biology of cancer. Understanding the molecular and cellular features of this process may enable the development and application of more effective and potentially curative treatment strategies in which the induction of programmed cell death is an integral component.

Analysis of the MEN1 gene in sporadic pituitary adenomas

The MEN1 gene on chromosome 11q13 is mutated in patients afflicted with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 1 (MEN1). These patients develop endocrine tumours of the pancreas, the parathyroid, and the anterior pituitary. In order to determine the role of MEN1 in sporadic pituitary adenomas, 61 pituitary adenomas were analysed from patients without evidence of a familial tumour syndrome. Single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis was performed for the entire coding sequence of MEN1. Fragments with aberrant migration patterns were sequenced bidirectionally. Only a single somatic mutation was detected in this series. In addition, several previously reported and three novel polymorphisms were observed. Loss of heterozygosity analysis with 12 polymorphic markers, however, identified 13 pituitary adenomas with allelic deletions on chromosome 11. Allelic losses occurred significantly more often in pituitary adenomas with hormone secretion than in non-functioning adenomas. These data suggest that MEN1 mutations are rare events in sporadic pituitary adenomas. However, the discrepancy of only 1/61 adenomas with MEN1 mutation but 13/61 (22 per cent) with allelic loss on chromosome 11 may suggest the presence of a yet unknown tumour suppressor gene, relevant to the pathogenesis of sporadic pituitary adenomas.

Molecular pathogenesis of acromegaly

Acromegaly is generally caused by growth hormone (GH) hypersecretion from a benign, monoclonal pituitary adenoma. As in other neoplastic conditions, pituitary tumor formation and dysregulated hormone secretion are most likely the ultimate result of a series of genetic alterations. A number of molecular and biochemical defects have been associated with pituitary tumorigenesis. Molecular events such as tumor suppressor gene inactivation and oncogene activation involved in pituitary tumor progression are examined. The role of hypothalamic regulatory hormones and hereditary syndromes involving acromegaly are also discussed.

Immunocytochemical accumulation of p53 in corticotroph adenomas: relationship with heat shock proteins and apoptosis

The pathogenesis of corticotroph adenomas is unknown. In a recent study accumulation of p53 protein was detected by immunohistochemistry in a substantial proportion of pituitary corticotroph adenomas, and it has been suggested that it may be causally related to their development. However, other immunohistochemical studies have not confirmed the high incidence of p53 accumulation in this tumor type. Therefore, in the present study, p53 protein accumulation was re-examined in a series of 31 cases of corticotroph adenomas, using different sets of well validated anti-p53 antibodies. Furthermore, in view of the known association of p53 protein with apoptosis, and the known property of p53 to form complexes with heat shock proteins (HSPs), the relationship of p53 accumulation in corticotroph adenomas with apoptosis and HSP-70 was also investigated. Tumor samples from 31 patients with Cushing's disease or Nelson's syndrome were studied. Accumulation of p53 protein was tested by the standard ABC method using two different sets of clone Pab1801 and DO-7 monoclonal antibodies, applied after incubation of sections in a microwave oven. Using the DO-7 antibody, nuclear accumulation of p53 protein was detected in a total of 15 cases, with cytoplasmic staining observed in only 3 tumors. In contrast, using the Pab1801 antibody nuclear staining was observed in only 5 adenomas, with 11 adenomas demonstrating focal cytoplasmic immunoreactivity. Parallel sections of all corticotroph tumors demonstrating cytoplasmic accumulation of p53 protein were tested for the immunohistochemical presence of heat shock protein HSP-70. A striking similar distribution pattern of these two proteins was observed. Apoptosis, identified by the in situ end labeling technique, was detected in a total of 15 out of 28 corticotroph adenomas tested. Calculation of the apoptotic labeling index (ALI) by image analysis showed a significantly lower ALI in those corticotroph adenomas demonstrating nuclear p53 accumulation compared to those with no nuclear p53 immunostaining (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the ALI between cytoplasmic p53 positive and negative tumors. It is concluded that depending on the antibody used there is a significant variation of p53 protein detection in corticotroph adenomas. Overall, a significant proportion of corticotroph adenomas studied expressed the p53 protein, which depending on the antibody used, was located either in the nucleus and/or the cytoplasm of tumorous corticotroph cells. Cytoplasmic accumulation of p53, as shown by our colocalization studies with HSP-70, may be due to p53/HSP-70 complex formation. Although such a complex-mediated cytoplasmic exclusion of p53 has no significant effect on apoptosis, nuclear accumulation of p53 protein is associated with a significantly lower apoptotic index indicating a failure of p53 protein to exert its apoptotic action in at least a subset of this tumor type.

The effects of age and spontaneous adenoma formation on trophic activity in the rat pituitary gland: a comparison with trophic activity in the human pituitary and in human pituitary adenomas

The effects of ageing on trophic activity in the pituitary gland and the molecular events that underlie pituitary tumour formation are poorly understood. In the present study we have used an extremely accurate system to analyse trophic activity in human pituitary tumours and compared our findings with trophic activity in spontaneous rat pituitary adenomas and with changes in basal rates of turnover as the animals age. Thin, hematoxylin and eosin-stained pituitary sections from groups of male Wistar rats aged 6 weeks to 16 months, killed at 90-min intervals after receiving a single intraperitoneal bolus of colchicine to block cellular passage through mitosis, were evaluated histologically. Extremely accurate quantification of small changes in the prevalence of trophic events, and thus the rate of cell turnover, was achieved using a dedicated computerized aid to manual cell counting. Results were compared with the prevalence of mitotic activity in 24 spontaneous rat pituitary adenomas and with a series of 97 archival human pituitary adenomas and 24 normal human pituitary glands obtained at autopsy. In rats, average basal pituitary cell turnover declined by over 95% between 6 weeks and 16 months of age. Concurrent with this decline was a marked increase in the prevalence of adenoma formation. The prevalence of mitotic activity in spontaneous rat pituitary adenomas averaged almost twice that seen in normal, young rat pituitary and exceeded 16 times that seen in the pituitary of aged animals. In contrast, when compared to normal human pituitary tissue, average trophic activity in human pituitary adenomas remained extremely low.

Are markers of proliferation valuable in the histological assessment of pituitary tumours?

The prediction of tumour behaviour and response to treatment has led to interest in the assessment of the proliferative potential of tumours. Pituitary tumours are usually histologically benign but are capable of aggressive growth and local invasion, although distant metastasis is limited to the very rare pituitary carcinoma. These differences in tumour behaviour may determine both the prognosis and also the effectiveness of treatment whether it be surgery, drugs or radiotherapy. Immunohistochemistry using antibodies to Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) which are expressed in cells that have entered the cell cycle, can be used to assess the proportion of the cells from a tumour that are proliferating. The percentage of positively stained nuclei (labelling index (LI)) may be helpful in predicting appropriate management, as there is a relationship in many tumours between labelling index, invasiveness and tumour recurrence. This has been shown to be true for pituitary tumours, although there may be significant overlap such that low LI may be seen in the rare, aggressive, metastatic pituitary carcinomas, and high LI in indolent tumours. Thus although assessment of proliferation may be helpful in arousing suspicion as to subsequent tumour recurrence or invasiveness, this technique also demonstrates that there are other important and as yet unidentified processes that determine pituitary tumour behaviour.

Molecular biology of human pituitary adenomas

While the majority of pituitary tumours will remain benign, a proportion will show invasive behaviour and a still smaller proportion will become malignant. Recent studies at both the biochemical and molecular level are now defining the changes associated with pituitary tumour initiation and progression. In particular, the use of microsatellite analysis in determining regions of gene deletion has considerably advanced our understanding of pituitary tumourigenesis. Bringing together the data of several groups now allows a tentative map to be drawn showing loss of heterozygosity at several chromosomal loci to be associated with the transition to the invasive and malignant phenotype, while changes associated with chromosome 9p and silencing, through methylation, of the tumour suppressor gene p16 appear to occur early in pituitary tumourigenesis. At the biochemical level, immunohistochemical studies have defined changes in key regulatory proteins along this multistep pathway. To determine whether these changes are truly predictive of tumour behaviour awaits carefully designed prospective studies. These future studies may well aid decision-making regarding management in a manner not possible using current histological assessment.

The molecular genetics of endocrine tumours

The molecular genetics of endocrine tumours is an area of great interest, due to the heterogeneity of endocrine tumour types, the association of hormone over-production in some cases, and the wide variation in tumour behaviour. Genes implicated fall into functional categories such as oncogenes, in which mutations tend to cause activation, and tumour suppressor genes, in which mutations lead to loss of function. Oncogenes include the receptor tyrosine kinases such as RET, signal transduction proteins and other molecules such as cell cycle regulators and nuclear proteins. Tumour suppressor genes include cell cycle regulators such as p53 and other molecules such as the MEN 1 gene. Loss of heterozygosity studies help in the initial localisation of the latter. Endocrine tumours, as with other tumours, develop as a result of a combination of genetic events, and in the paediatric age group they often occur in the setting of familial cancer syndromes. In this review we analyse the main genetic lesions which have been described in endocrine tumours. There has been an explosion of knowledge in the last 5 years including the identification of the causative genes for MEN 2 and most recently for MEN 1. Characterisation of such genes also aids in the study of somatic mutations in sporadic versions of the same tumour types as occur in the familial syndromes. Identification of a genetic predisposition to a certain tumour has management implications that are still to be clarified in most cases, although in the case of MEN 2 the guidelines for prophylactic thyroidectomy are generally well accepted.

Adrenocorticotropin-Producing Pituitary Carcinoma with Expression of c-erbB-2 and High PCNA Index: A Comparative Study with Pituitary Adenomas and Normal Pituitary Tissues

Pituitary carcinomas are very rare neoplasms with a poor prognosis. We report a case of Cushing's disease resulting from a pituitary carcinoma in a 22-yr old female, who died of massive hepatic failure. At autopsy, there was invasion of the parasellar structures and vasculature by the tumor, which stained positively only for ACTH. There were two metastatic nodules in the liver, which also stained positively for ACTH. When compared to other cases of Cushing's disease (n = 52), other pituitary adenomas (n = 292). and normal pituitary tissues (n = 21), the pituitary carcinoma was the only one with c-erbB-2 membrane staining in both the sellar-located tissue and liver metastasis. C-erbB-2 staining was present in the cytoplasm of a variable number of cells in 40% of the invasive adenomas (n = 103), while only 1.2% of the noninvasive tumors (n = 241) expressed this protein (p < 0.001). No particular immunohistological type preferentially expressed this protein. In normal pituitary tissues, 10% of the cells expressed cytoplasmic c-erbB-2. A higher index of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the primary tumor and liver metastasis (10%) was also found compared to other ACTH-secreting adenomas (invasive, 3.4 -t 1 S% vs 1 ii +/- 1.5% in noninvasive) and other pituitary tumors (invasive, 2.9 +/- 1.5% vs 1.5 +/- 1.3% in noninvasive). The PCNA index was significantly higher in invasive tumors than in noninvasive adenomas (p = 0.004). PCNA staining was negative in normal pituitary tissues. Staining for p53, pRB and p(2ras) was negative in the carcinoma and liver metastasis. We suggest that the c-erbB-2 membrane pattern and a higher PCNA index may indicate a worse prognosis in adenohypophyseal neoplasia.

Molecular genetics of pituitary tumours

The last several years have seen a significant increase in our understanding of the molecular and biochemical changes associated with pituitary tumour initiation and progression. The combined data, from several groups, now allow a tentative map to be drawn showing that reduction to hemizygosity at several chromosomal loci (10q, 11q13 and 13q) is associated with the transition to the invasive phenotype, while loss on chromosome 9p and methylation of the tumour suppressor gene p16 appear to occur early in pituitary tumorigenesis. Changes in the expression/status of several genes and/or proteins including p53, the cAMP response element-binding factor (CREB), growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), nm23, p16 and p27 have also been identified along this multi-step pathway. Prospective studies will determine whether these markers are truly predictive of subsequent tumour behaviour and can be used to aid clinical management in a manner not possible when current histological criteria are used.