[The expression of trefoil factor 1 and trefoil factor 2 in gastric cancer and precancer].

OBJECTIVE

Trefoil factor 1 (TFF1) and trefoil factor 2 (TFF2) are members of the trefoil peptide family. To investigate the relationship between TFF1, TFF2 and tumorigenesis of precancerous conditions and gastric cancer.

METHODS

The expression of TFF1, TFF2 was determined by immunohistochemical method in 140 gastric specimens including 35 chronic superficial gastritis (CSG), 35 gastric ulcer (GU), 35 chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) and 35 gastric cancer (GC).

RESULTS

In the CSG, GU, CAG and GC, the level of TFF1 expression had a decreasing tendency (P < 0.05). The expression of TFF2 also had a decreased tendency in GU, CAG, and GC (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The reducing expression of TFF1, TFF2 in the precancerous conditions and gastric cancer was confirmed, and the decrease of TFF1, TFF2 expression may be related to tumorigenesis, progression and the degree of tumor differentiation. Further studies will be necessary to determine the mechanisms of TFF1, TFF2 in the tumor and prospects of clinical implication.