HMGIC expression patterns in non-small lung cancer and surrounding tissue

Background: So far no powerful molecular markers have been found allowing a n early detection of lung cancer enabling a higher rate of curative cancer therapy. Based on its expression patterns in other malignant tumors the exp ression of the high mobility group protein gene HMGIC is a possible new can didate for such a diagnostic marker Materials and Methods: The HMGIC expres sion patterns were determined in samples from 19 non-SCLC, 14 corresponding non-malignant adjacent lung, and 7 pleural tissues by hemi-nested RT-PCR f ollowed by the detection of HMGIC specific amplification products by Southe rn blot hybridization. Results: HMGIC expression was found in 14/19 non-SCL C samples. In contrast, expression was not detectable in any of the non-mal ignant adjacent lung or pleural tissues. Conclusions: These results suggest that HMGIC expression may be a potential new and powerful indicator for lu ng cancer. An HMGIC expression assay may be applicable to sputum or broncho -alveolar lavage fluid samples facilitating early detection of lung cancer.