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Research Article: Expression of Connexin 43 in Granular Cell Tumors of the Skin, Tongue and Esophagus

Date Published: 2023-06-16

Abstract:
Background: Granular cell tumors (GCT) are rare neoplasms of Schwann cell origin occurring in the skin and in other organs. The etiopathogenesis of GCT is yet poorly understood. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most broadly expressed gap junction protein in humans, the tumoral role of which has been investigated in several types of tumors. Its role in GCT of the skin, oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract is as yet unknown. Methods: Herein, we present a study on the immunohistochemical expression of Cx43 in GCT of the skin (n = 15), tongue (n = 4) and esophagus (n = 3). Immunolabeling was scored positive (weak (+), moderate (++) or strong (+++)). Results: Cx43 was expressed by all cases of GCT of the skin, tongue and esophagus (22/22), showing moderate to strong staining. All tissue sections of GCT were characterized by a diffuse, cytoplasmic staining pattern of the tumor cells. None of those showed membranous or nuclear staining. Conclusion: Our results suggest that Cx43 probably plays an important role in the development of this rare tumor entity.

Introduction:
Connexins (Cxs) are transmembrane proteins that form gap junctions, which are specialized structures that allow direct intercellular communication between adjacent cells [1]. Cxs play a key role in maintaining cellular homeostatic balance and are involved in a variety of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell death [2]. In recent years, several Cxs have been studied in different tumor types, focusing on their pro- and antitumor properties. In carcinogenesis, Cxs have long been…

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