Abstract:
Objective We investigated the expressions of nestin and CD34 in human glioma and their correlations with prognosis.
Methods Immunohistochemistry assay was conducted on the expressions of nestin and CD34 in 63 specimens of human gliomas. We also analyzed the influence of nestin expression on survival rate.
Results Strong expressions of nestin were observed in 16 of the 63 cases(25.4%). Moderate expressions were observed in 14 cases (22.2%) and weak expressions in 15 cases (23.8%). No expressions were found in the remaining 18 cases (28.6%). Statistically significant differences existed among these groups (P < 0.01). The expression of nestin increased with higher pathological grades (χ²=41.44; P < 0.01). The microvessel densities of positive CD34 cells were 35 ± 14, 69 ± 33, 119± 49 for grade Ⅰ, Ⅱ, and Ⅲ–Ⅳ gliomas, respectively. Statistically significant differences existed among these groups (P < 0.01). CD34 and survival time were significantly and negatively correlated with the expression level of nestin (P < 0.01), respectively.
Conclusion The expressions of CD34 have definite correlations with nestin. CD34 is correlated with the formation of neo-vessels in gliomas. The expressions of nestin and CD34 can be used for accurately assessing the prognosis of glioma patients.