Analysis of chromosomes 3, 7, X and the EGFR gene in uterine cervical cancer progression

Eur J Cancer. 2004 Jul;40(10):1624-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2004.03.015.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible role of genetic alterations in the genesis and progression of cervical carcinomas. We analysed the 3, 7, X aneusomy of chromosomes and the status of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene by fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) analysis. Polysomy of chromosomes 3 and X defined the transition from high-grade squamous intraepithelium lesions (HSIL) to cervical carcinoma. Chromosome 7 monosomy and polysomy did not show any statistical significant differences between the groups examined. When we compared the chromosomal aneusomies in all of the specimens using the Kruskal-Wallis test, significant differences (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001 for chromosomes 3 and X, respectively) were observed. Using a ratio of the EGFR gene signals and chromosome 7 centromeric signals, no samples showed gene amplification. Our results demonstrate the importance of chromosomal 3 and X aneusomies in the development and progression from HSIL to cervical carcinoma, highlighting their usefulness as genetic markers for identifying SILs at high-risk of progression.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Chromosome Aberrations*
  • Chromosomes, Human, Pair 3 / genetics*
  • Chromosomes, Human, Pair 7 / genetics*
  • Chromosomes, Human, X / genetics*
  • Disease Progression
  • ErbB Receptors / genetics*
  • Female
  • Genetic Markers
  • Humans
  • In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
  • Middle Aged
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / genetics*

Substances

  • Genetic Markers
  • ErbB Receptors