Expression of CD133 and Extracellular Matrix Molecules in Malignant Brain Tumors

Background: CD133 could be characterized as a “stem-like” cell subpopulation and an invasive tumor phenotype. The objectives of this study were to investigate the relationship of CD133 and other remodeling factors such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in the brain tumors. Methods: Tumors from 13 patients with brain tumors (8 lung cancer metastasis, 3 breast cancer metastasis, 2 gliomas) were studied to investigate the expression-patterns of CD133, EGFR, MT1-MMP, and MMP7 using the immunostaining and RT-PCR analysis. Results: EGFR immunostaining was detected in 75% (6/8) and 67% (1/3) of brain metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma and breast cancer, respectively. MT1-MMP immunostaining was also detected in 73% (8/11) of these brain metastasis. CD133 was not detected in these 13 patients. EGFR immunostaining was detected in 75% (6/8) and 67% (1/3) of brain metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma and breast cancer, respectively. MT1-MMP immunostaining was also detected in 73% (8/11) of these brain metastasis. CD133 was not detected in these 13 patients. Conclusions: The expression of CD133 indicates a marker for brain tumor initiating.