We analysed the expression of melanoma antigen-encoding (MAGE) gene-1,
-2, and -3 in 20 maxillary carcinomas consisting of two cell lines: f
reshly isolated cancer cells from specimens from 13 patients, and 5 bi
opsy specimens. The cells were subjected to reverse transcription by t
he polymerase chain reaction. Fourteen (70%) out of 20 maxillary carci
nomas expressed at least one of the MAGE genes. In contrast, five cont
rol samples of inflammed mucosa from the maxillary sinus of patients w
ith chronic sinusitis were all negative for the expression of these ge
nes. Results indicated that patients with maxillary carcinoma may be g
ood candidates for specific immunotherapy.