Potentially Important Markers in Thyroid Neoplasia: Claudin‑1 and MMP-7

Abstract

Background: Thyroid carcinomas are the most common malignant endocrine tumors, and various immunohistochemical markers are  tested in routine practice to reduce diagnostic differences, as well as to elucidate carcinogenesis and detect malignancy. Disruption of  basement membranes and the extracellular matrix is an important step in tumor carcinogenesis and progression. The claudin and matrix  metalloproteinase families are also thought to be effective in this process.

Aim: In this retrospective study, the comparative  expression of claudin-1 and MMP-7 immunomarkers in normal tissues and thyroid neoplasia were investigated.

Materials and Methods:  Immunohistochemical staining was performed for claudin-1 and matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP-7) in 112 sections, including 24  follicular adenomas, 22 follicular carcinomas, 24 medullary carcinomas, 24 papillary carcinomas, and 18 single dominant nodules from thyroid lesions.

Results: A significant staining difference for claudin-1 was observed in follicular carcinoma and medullary carcinoma,  papillary carcinoma, and single dominant nodules compared to normal thyroid tissue. A statistically significant staining difference was  observed for MMP-7 in follicular adenoma, medullary carcinoma, and papillary carcinoma compared to normal thyroid tissue.   

Conclusions: These results indicate that claudin-1 and MMP-7 are important in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and carcinogenesis  of follicular adenoma, follicular carcinoma, medullary carcinoma, papillary carcinoma, and single dominant nodules.