ABSENCE OF FHIT PROTEIN IN PRIMARY LUNG-TUMORS AND CELL-LINES WITH FHIT GENE ABNORMALITIES

Genomic alterations and abnormal expression of the FHIT gene at 3p14.2 have been observed in cell lines and primary tumors of the lung. To c orrelate FHIT locus DNA and RNA lesions with effects on Fhit protein e xpression, we have analyzed 11 lung cancer cell lines, 15 small cell l ung carcinomas, and 38 pairs of non-small cell primary tumors and bron chial mucosa specimens by molecular genetic and immunocytochemical met hods. Using specific antibodies against the Fhit protein, me observed concordance between RNA abnormalities and lack of Fhit protein express ion in lung tumors and cell lines. In addition, absence of Fhit protei n in some precancerous dysplastic lesions suggested that FHIT inactiva tion may occur at an early phase of lung carcinogenesis.