Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1 Expression in Breast Cancer and Its Correlation to Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A

الملخص EN

VEGF-A is the most potent angiogenic factor in tumour angiogenesis.

Its effects are mediated via two receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2.

Primary aim of our study was to examine the expression of VEGFR-1 in breast cancer and its correlation to VEGF expression, lymph node status, tumour size, histological grade, and hormone receptor status.

To examine the VEGFR-1 and VEGF expressions in tumour and surrounding tissue of 51 breast cancer patients, and in healthy breast tissue of 30 benign breast diseases patients, we used three-step immunohistochemical staining.

VEGFR-1 and VEGF expressions were significantly increased in breast cancer tumour in relation to surrounding tissue (P<0.01), and the VEGF expression was significantly increased in lymph node positive breast cancer patients (P<0.01).

VEGFR-1 and VEGF expressions were significantly higher in breast cancer tumour compared with healthy breast tissue (P<0.01).

Significant correlation between VEGF and VEGFR-1 expressions was found (P<0.05).

No significant correlations between VEGF and VEGFR-1 expressions and tumour size, histological grade, and hormone receptor status were found.

Increased expression of VEGFR-1 and VEGF in breast cancer tumour and significant correlation between these proteins suggest the possible role of VEGF/VEGFR-1 signalization in breast cancer development, although VEGFR-1 potential prognostic value was not confirmed.