Detection of the WNT/Beta-Catenin Signaling Activity by Using Immunocytochemical Technique in Cervical Smears

DÖNMEZ H. G., DEMİREZEN Ş., BEKSAÇ M. S.

GORM Gynecology Obstetrics & Reproductive Medicine, no.19, pp.91-95, 2013 (ESCI, TRDizin)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2013
  • Journal Name: GORM Gynecology Obstetrics & Reproductive Medicine
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Academic Search Premier, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.91-95
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway controls cell fate and homeostasis of embryonic

and adult tissues. The aim of the study is to evaluate the activity of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cervical

smears by using immunocytochemistry.

STUDY DESIGN: Cervical smears taken from 200 patients were examined in terms of immunostaining

of β-catenin. The membranous staining with moderate (++) or strong (+++) cytoplasmic and/or nuclear

staining was scored positive for signaling activity.

RESULTS: Positive Wnt/β-catenin signaling was found in 21 of 200 cases (10.5%). The nucleus was not

found to be positive in any of the cells. However, some nuclear membranes were positive. In addition,

when signaling was active, the membranous expression of β-catenin was observed to increase by a statistically

significant amount epithelial cells (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Our data indicates that immunocytochemical techniques can be used to detect the activity

of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in routine cervical smears.